Murphy's Law

“If anything can go wrong, it will.” While there are differing accounts of who first coined this phrase, it is most often associated with Edward A. Murphy, an American aerospace engineer who worked on rocket safety-critical systems in the 1940s and 1950s—systems designed to prevent malfunctions that could result in loss of life.

The story goes that after an incorrectly installed sensor caused an issue, Murphy, blaming his assistant, remarked: “If that guy has any way of making a mistake, he will.” This statement later evolved into the widely known adage: “If anything can go wrong, it will.”

Although Murphy was reportedly unhappy with this interpretation of his law—arguing that it is more accurately understood as “always assume a worst-case scenario”—the sentiment underscores the importance of proactively identifying and addressing potential obstacles before they arise.

Murphy’s Law and the Realities of School Leadership
“If anything can go wrong, it will.” While there are differing accounts of who first coined this phrase, it is most often associated with Edward A. Murphy, an American aerospace engineer who worked on rocket safety-critical systems in the 1940s and 1950s—systems designed to prevent malfunctions that could result in loss of life.

The story goes that after an incorrectly installed sensor caused an issue, Murphy, blaming his assistant, remarked: “If that guy has any way of making a mistake, he will.” This statement later evolved into the widely known adage: “If anything can go wrong, it will.”

Although Murphy was reportedly unhappy with this interpretation of his law—arguing that it is more accurately understood as “always assume a worst-case scenario”—the sentiment underscores the importance of proactively identifying and addressing potential obstacles before they arise.

Murphy’s Law in School Leadership
For school leaders, Murphy’s Law serves as a valuable lesson in preparation, risk management, and resilience. Running a school is full of unpredictable challenges, from staffing shortages and safeguarding concerns to unexpected Ofsted inspections or IT system failures on the first day of online exams. Effective leaders don’t just hope for the best—they plan for the worst while working towards the best possible outcomes.

Consider the following applications of Murphy’s Law in schools:

• Staff Absences & Contingency Planning – A well-run school ensures there are cover plans in place because there will inevitably be days when multiple staff members are absent. Having a strong support structure, such as reliable cover supervisors or a responsive supply agency, can prevent last-minute chaos.

• Technology Failures – From interactive whiteboards freezing mid-lesson to online assessment platforms crashing, technology is brilliant when it works—but a nightmare when it doesn’t. Backup plans and alternative teaching strategies ensure learning continues, even when tech lets you down.

• Behaviour Policies & Implementation – Schools may have a behaviour policy in place, but if it is not clearly communicated, consistently applied, and well-understood by staff, then inconsistencies will arise. Effective leaders anticipate the human element of policies and ensure thorough training and reinforcement.

• School Trips & Risk Management – Any experienced trip leader knows that even the best-laid plans can unravel—a coach breaks down, a student forgets their passport, or adverse weather forces a last-minute itinerary change. Successful school leaders and trip organisers anticipate potential pitfalls and ensure risk assessments are thorough and realistic.

Turning Murphy’s Law into a Leadership Strength
Rather than viewing Murphy’s Law as a pessimistic outlook, great school leaders use it as a strategy for proactive problem-solving. By assuming that things can and will go wrong, leaders can:

• Develop a culture of preparedness – Encourage staff to think ahead and plan for worst-case scenarios

• Create adaptable systems – Ensure policies and processes are flexible enough to withstand unexpected events.

• Foster a resilient team – Equip staff with the confidence and autonomy to handle disruptions without panic.

Ultimately, school leadership is about balancing optimism with realism. By embracing the lessons of Murphy’s Law, leaders can build schools that are not just reactive but resilient, ensuring that even when things go wrong, the school continues to thrive.