3 Reflective Questions for Educational Leaders for the End of 2023
It's hard to believe that I originally wrote this blog post three years ago. But as I read back on it, not much has changed. Sure, nothing will quite compare to the year that was 2020, but the early childhood sector continues to be a rollercoaster! For leaders - approved providers, nominated supervisors and educational leaders - this year has bought an array of unexpected challenges that have no doubt tested your leadership skills, and your resilience.
But you know what? We've made it. The end of the year is around the corner and most services are winding down and getting ready for a break. What a perfect time to reflect. Not on how tough the year has been, but on how we have risen to the challenge (or perhaps at times, shied away from it) throughout the year in the role of educational leader.
So, we are encouraging you to grab a notebook and head outside (fresh air and sunshine are good for you!) and reflect on these three questions:
- How did I support my team on an emotional/wellbeing level throughout this year?
- How did I lead our team to keep families engaged in the program and practices of the service, particularly during staff shortages or periods of educator turnover?
- How did I grow as a leader? What new skills and knowledge did or gain, or what practices did I implement?
There you go - that wasn't so hard! You might have your own questions to add too.
When we reflect on what we've done well, and even what didn't go so well - it gives us the opportunity to consider how we might grow in the future. Let this simple reflective practice be a stepping stone to setting some leadership goals in 2024
