Diversity in Senior Leadership Teams (SLT)

This month’s blog post is slightly controversial, or shall I say taboo. I am going to talk about the lack of diversity in leadership and what this means for our children and young ethnic minority staff embarking on their teaching careers. Who do they look up to for aspirations? How do we entice them to take on roles when they don’t see themselves represented? Through my experiences (I know it is not much for a 26-year-old) I have been accustomed to seeing only certain characteristics represented (I will leave this to your imagination). Does this mean that we do not have people who can represent and take on such leadership roles? Absolutely not! I know some incredible ethnically diverse members of staff who would be an asset to any school within leadership roles. However, the system does not nurture these talented individuals, but rather isolate and alienate them. This has made me think about my journey and what is ahead of me.

Diversity needed in SLT for the sake of the young people...

Growing up I went to a diverse inner city school, although the schools’ population consisted of a wide range of ethnic minorities, looking within the leadership I didn’t see anyone that represented me. Until this year, (my second year of teaching) this experience had always discouraged me from aspiring to be within leadership. I definitely went through phases when I was planning my journey as a teacher and where I saw myself in 3, 5 and even 10 years. Being an SLT was nowhere on that path of mine as I was content with being a classroom teacher. However, being around some inspirational individuals has reinforced the idea that diversity within a leadership structure is paramount. I have been around people who trust and believe in my abilities and have pushed me for the better. All which has made me alter my path in teaching. On this new journey, I have taken up opportunities presented to me; completed courses, networked and more. I even had an interview for a second in charge role. Although I was unsuccessful, it was a valuable experience to take forward.

I want to represent minorities and be the representation that I never got. Someone to look up to who looks like them. To let them know it is possible to be a teacher, a leader and/or both should that be the route they would like to take. So far, massive improvements have been made, especially at my school. Although there is a lack of diversity within SLT, it does exist in every department. This makes me happy as it signals a potential for change. As a PE teacher, I have already broken barriers within my classroom. The number of ethnic minority students who now find PE accessible, enjoyable and attend extra-curricular activities has grown significantly. This has even sparred on my Masters project in which I have seen the narrative of young Muslim girls being redefined.

I know, a lot to ponder on! I genuinely believe the future is bright and exciting.

Just a quick update since my last post, I have nearly finished my Masters Project write up which looks at the experiences of young Muslim women in PE and extracurricular activities. I have also taken time out to chill out and relax with my family, celebrated Eid together and currently mentally preparing myself for my 3^rd year of teaching.