The voice of the profession.
If I had a dollar for every person that wanted ‘a seat at the table’, I would be a very rich person. I believe there are few that genuinely deserve a seat – those that demonstrate deep cognitive knowledge, deep relationship/structural knowledge, have an effective empathetic and just view of the past and a constructive, energised view to the future. Folk that are brave and passionate but take the time to become informed and deeply reflective. I witnessed through my involvement with the disability sector. Competing voices that trumpet dissent, result in no movement at all. A concrete example of this was the push for the NDIS, originally proposed under Gough Whitlam in the 1970s. It was only when voices came together for Kevin Rudd’s 2020 Summit that a combined voice had outcomes – in this instance an NDIS (under the Community banner). Advocates from all areas of the disability sector came together to push for a scheme that went beyond the basic (but wonderful) provision of Medicare to support those with catastrophic and deeply debilitating conditions. We know the NDIS has issues, but as a society, we are moving in the right direction. I believe the same applies to education. By professing our individual wants and needs, how on earth might government(s) responsible for all, be expected to respond? For this reason, I am very grateful to ACEL who provide a voice that puts the profession at its core. It rises above sector or chronological gripes to cut to the heart of what is required for quality education in our country.
In Victoria, we are gearing up for our Leaders Connect Series – the first of which focuses on the development of middle level leaders. On speaking to other principals, the capacity and knowledge at this level are areas in which we need to invest as a profession. Leadership is wonderful, but it is also hard. It is rarely exactly as envisioned. I recall interviewing a prospective Head of Department, who, when asked what they would do if a staff member was underperforming, responded “but that would never happen!”. Middle level leaders have to manage up and manage down. If they follow the mantra “never complain down” it often leaves them frustrated and confused. There is also the dissonance between the middle level leaders as ‘advocates’ for their areas, or as contributors to the whole school strategic advancement. Different staff members expect different things, and it can be a very confusing path. Add to this, the middle level leaders who view those above them as somewhat incompetent and think they deserve an opportunity to do those roles, compounding existing layers of disquiet. To this end ACEL Vic is developing a series of opportunities to explore middle level leadership and I warmly invite all to be part of these local and instructive events. The first of these is at Strathcona Girls’ School on August 1st for ACEL VICTORIA's first Leaders Connect event. This is a unique opportunity to connect and network with leaders from various sectors. Participants will gain valuable insights and tips from current leaders about thriving in their ecosystems. Don't miss this chance to enhance your leadership skills and expand your professional network. See you there!
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I also encourage all to consider attending the ACEL National Conference. It is already selling out, so please book soon for an event for the profession, by the profession.
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Annette Rome
ACEL VIC Branch President