Scenario 2.1: A middle leader is underperforming and not responding to feedback
A middle leader in your school is not meeting expectations, either in the quality of their team leadership or in their strategic contribution. Despite support and feedback, there has been little improvement. This is affecting outcomes, team morale, and trust.
Leadership Behaviours to Support This Challenge
| Code | Behaviour | Why It Matters |
| T10 | Embrace Accountability | Holding leaders to account sets the tone for the whole team. It signals that underperformance will be addressed. |
| T1 | Know Your Team | Helps you understand whether the issue is capability, capacity, mindset, or clarity. |
| T2 | Ask First | Builds understanding of their perspective before taking further action. |
| L4 | Make it Happen | Delivers on the commitment to act when things are not going well. |
| Y4 | Humility | Allows you to stay open to the possibility that you may need to adjust your own approach too. |
Suggested Approach
- Meet with the leader and listen actively before outlining your concerns.
- Clarify expectations and set specific, measurable goals for improvement.
- Offer practical support and coaching, but be clear about non-negotiables.
- Follow up consistently, offering praise for progress and redirection if needed.
- If there is no change, be prepared to escalate or reposition. Accountability drives standards.