Emotional intelligence and leadership in schools
In the latest episode of The Schools North East Podcast, we explore emotional intelligence as a practical foundation for leadership, communication and culture, not a buzzword.
Kate Chisholm, Executive Head Teacher at SMART Academy Trust, draws on over 15 years of experience to reflect on what it really means to lead well in a system that often feels pressured and divided.
Working in highly disadvantaged communities reshaped Kate’s understanding of attainment and equity, highlighting that the biggest challenges in education are often human, not just structural. As leadership responsibility grows, staying grounded and connected becomes both harder and more important.
Wellbeing and moral injury
The conversation explores why leadership can feel increasingly fragile. Moving beyond workload, we examine the difference between burnout and moral injury, and why values-driven leaders are leaving the profession. A key message is clear: wellbeing cannot sit solely with individuals, organisations have a responsibility to nurture it.
From silo working to the influence of technology, the episode reflects on why we can feel more “at odds” with each other. Psychological frameworks like the ladder of inference and “maps and territories” help explain how misunderstandings and conflict develop, and how leaders can respond more thoughtfully.
Belonging and better leadership
At the heart of the discussion is the shift from compliance to belonging. In complex and sometimes polarised environments, the ability to think clearly, communicate well and hold different perspectives is essential.
The takeaway is simple: the challenges we face are deeply human, and that means we can get better at them. This is an episode not to be missed. Listen now.