In times of profound uncertainty, such as we are experiencing in the wake of the EU referendum, our leadership is put to the test. We are inevitably dealing with our own feelings - of fear, loss and apprehension. But the young people and communities we serve look to us for steadfast, calm and resolute leadership.

There is, of course, the temptation to enter the political fray, to participate in the frenzy of speculation. But this can only contribute to uncertainty.

 So here are five simple things we need to do now:

1. Seek out the facts

Einstein famously said: “If I had only one hour to save the world, I would spend 55 minutes defining the problem and only five minutes finding the solution.”

Take time to understand the problem, particularly in uncertain or risky situations. If necessary, find ways to buy time before you do anything.

It may be some time before the facts of our situation are clear. It is probably not helpful to try to anticipate what may happen. Speculation can act to feed fear.

2. Lead quietly and calmly

Joseph Badaracco, professor of business ethics at Harvard Business School, says: “Leaders who do the right thing lead quietly.” He talks about the three quiet virtues of restraint, modesty and tenacity. Big problems are solved not by loud hero-leaders, but by a long series of small actions. We make a difference through our resolve and our persistence in doing the right thing. According to Badaracco’s research, this often turns out to be the quickest way to make an organisation - and the world - a better place.

3. Communicate

Leading quietly does not mean leading silently. We need to communicate relentlessly, but responsibly. And not just to the children and families we serve or our staff. We must also speak and act on behalf of children and young people.

Some of the children and young people in our care are facing uncertain futures. Those children who are EU nationals may be feeling anxious. They need care and reassurance. But offering reassurance about an uncertain future is also risky and, ultimately, not helpful if the reassurance that is offered turns out to be wrong. Our words of reassurance must be carefully thought out, responsible and considered.

Ultimately, the ethic of care that drives us as leaders is what is most needed. Children (and adults in our schools and colleges) need to feel that we care about them now more than ever.

4. Make decisions when the time is right

Leading in uncertainty demands not just fact-finding but also thoughtful analysis. The profound uncertainty in which we find ourselves amplifies the importance of making decisions when the time is right - that is to say, at the moment when the fog has lifted enough to be sure that the decision is the right one.

Good decisions are not made on the back of speculation.

5. Go together

A Chinese proverb says: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” When all about us political parties are involved in protracted leadership contests, it is now more important than ever that we, the education leaders of the country, go together. Education is the long game. We need to step up now and lead together. Our children and young people’s futures depend on it.

Leora Cruddas is the ASCL’s director of policy

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