Want to learn how to be a better teacher? Get to know your school principal.

School principals are often the unsung heroes of the education system. Understanding how teachers can support their principal helps build stronger school communities. Principals never really leave the classroom. They’re the teachers’ teacher, with a unique view of teaching and learning that shapes student success.

Understand Their Vision

Take time to get to know your principal. What drives them? What vision do they have for the school? When teachers understand their principal’s goals and values, they can help bring that vision to life. Aligning your efforts with theirs creates a shared direction and purpose.

Be a Team Player

Schools run best when leadership and teaching staff work as one. Contribute to a positive culture. Collaborate on problem-solving. Be open to feedback and flexible in your approach. Stepping outside your classroom to help with school-wide initiatives builds trust and shows commitment to the whole learning community.

Prioritise Professional Growth

Principals want the best for students, and that begins with teacher learning. Take up opportunities to grow. Join workshops, attend webinars, and share insights with your peers. Your professional development strengthens not just your practice, but the whole school’s ability to improve.

Show Appreciation

Leadership can be lonely. A thank-you note, a kind word, or a message of support means more than you might realise. These gestures foster mutual respect and remind your principal that their work matters.

Shared Success

Principals can’t lead alone. They rely on the collective strength of the staff to shape a thriving school. When teachers support leadership through collaboration, initiative, and encouragement, the result is a stronger learning culture for everyone, especially students.

"Because how you lead shapes what students become." A weekly moment to pause, reflect, and lead with purpose.

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Dr Jake Madden
I'm Jake Madden — educator, principal, and author with over 40 years in the field. My work centres on building teacher capacity, future-focused learning design, and global curriculum thinking. I'm especially passionate about the teacher-as-researcher and have explored these ideas through books and journal articles. I'm always learning from the field as much as contributing to it.

Author: Dr Jake Madden

I'm Jake Madden — educator, principal, and author with over 40 years in the field. My work centres on building teacher capacity, future-focused learning design, and global curriculum thinking. I'm especially passionate about the teacher-as-researcher and have explored these ideas through books and journal articles. I'm always learning from the field as much as contributing to it.

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