I started a role in middle management two and a half years ago. This was a big move for me as I was leaving a school where I was happy in my work and with the team I worked with.
Here’s what I’ve learned in this time that might be helpful for anyone thinking of applying for a promoted post like this:
1. Impostor syndrome
The moment I was offered the job I started to feel like I had made a mistake. Why was I leaving somewhere I was happy? Why was I looking to restart? Why did I want added responsibility? What if I can’t do it? What if I hate it?
These were just some of the questions I thought about often in the first few weeks following the interview. That then passed and I started to become excited about the challenge ahead, but it really was a strong feeling I wasn’t expecting.
2. Get to know your team
Starting a job in the middle of Covid made mixing with staff tricky, but I made sure I took time to get to know my team. Nothing over the top, just being interested in them and their life.
It sounds simple, but how many times have you had a boss who doesn’t seem to care about you as a person? I know I’ve certainly had this and it was something I was keen to make sure I was on top of. Now we are out of Covid times, I’m really conscious of staff morale and making sure the team know I’m here for them if they need me.
3. The buck stops with you
It seems silly to say but this took a bit of getting used to. I had always had ideas on the way things should be done and I wasn’t shy about verbalising these to my previous bosses, but all of a sudden when people were coming to me with ideas I had to consider these against my own thoughts, the needs of the service and the needs of the wider school.
This added responsibility certainly makes me think things through much further and challenge them deeper than I ever did previously. This robust thinking has improved my own understanding of how a team operates and works.
4. Get used to less teaching time
Again, it is obvious but it really wasn’t something I was expecting to miss so much. I teach less as I have more management time. This management time is vital and is used to support, pupils, staff and partners. But when I’m doing this I’m not teaching, and I love teaching.
It has taken me a couple of years to get into the rhythm of not being class-committed - something that you should consider if you are thinking of taking that step to middle management.
5. Have an idea of changes - but don’t rush them
I have slowly made changes to my department and systems in the school. This is obviously important, but do it slowly and allow staff to move with your ideas and change. To steamroller in and change everything all at once disrupts staff, learners and the service. Compassion around all this is vital.
So, two and a half years in, I’m learning every day and enjoying the job in a wonderful school with an amazing team and supportive managers. I hope anyone else considering middle management is as lucky as me.
Adam Black is principal teacher for ASN (additional support needs) at Calderglen High School, in East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire. He tweets @adam_black23
