Know the Why!

One way to reduce resistance to school improvement is by clearly explaining the ‘why’ behind the change. Doing so can be an effective strategy for increasing staff buy-in. This concept is explained by leadership expert Simon Sinek in his Golden Circle model, which he first popularised in his 2006 TED Talk.

Sinek argues that most organisations understand the ‘what’—that is, what they do. For example, a business sells a product, while a school provides education. Some organisations also understand the ‘how’—the elements that set them apart from the competition. In a school’s case, this might be a strong academic focus with high numbers of Oxbridge admissions or an emphasis on developing well-rounded students who become good citizens.

However, Sinek emphasises that very few organisations truly understand their ‘why’—their core purpose and the fundamental reason they exist. The ‘why’ gives employees a meaningful reason to engage with and support the organisation. Yet, it must go beyond simply making money for a business or providing a ‘good’ education for a school.

For this reason, every school must take the time to carefully define and communicate its ‘why’, ensuring that staff, students, and the wider school community understand and connect with its core purpose.