School Headship

Late Dev Lahiri | Head of School | Welham Boys School

What is School Headship?

A Career in School Headship is very interesting. Almost everyone seems to be talking about How to start a Career in School Headship, while one should first develop an understanding of What is a Career in School Headship. It is best to learn about School Headship from a real professional, this is akin to getting it from the horse's mouth.

With 24 years of professional experience, Head of School Late Dev Lahiri understands School Headship. Head of School Late Dev Lahiri defines School Headship as:

School Headship will happen to you if you are a good teacher.Education is a field that is changing rapidly almost every single day. As a teacher you should keep yourself well informed with these changes. You definitely need to have a masters and a BEd degree.For a good school head you have to equip yourself with the knowledge that is required. The point in India is that there is a great scarcity of school heads. Today lots of new schools are coming up and they are looking for someone to head their school.

How Head of School Late Dev Lahiri got into School Headship?

After completing my Bachelors and Masters from St Stephens, Delhi i did my post graduate course in Social Sciences from Oxford University. After that i worked with the Doon School for 9 years as a housemaster. Later i even worked with Lawrence Lovedale, Selaqui. In the year 2003 i joined Welham Boys School as a headmaster.

Head of School Late Dev Lahiri's Talk on School Headship

The Journey of a School Head: Dev Lahiri’s Insights on Leading in Education Dev Lahiri's journey through the landscape of school headship is both inspiring and nuanced, filled with experiences that shaped his understanding and approach to education. With a background rooted in academic excellence and diverse professional experiences, Lahiri has dedicated himself to the transformative role of a headmaster. In this article, we will explore the intricate world of school headship through his reflections on education, the essential skills required, the positives and challenges of the career, and a glimpse into a day in his life. What Is School Headship? School headship is not merely a title, but a profound commitment to fostering an educational environment that nurtures students and teachers alike. A school head is responsible for guiding the direction of their institution, shaping the educational philosophy, and ensuring that both academic success and personal growth are prioritized. This role is demanding and multifaceted, as illustrated by Dev Lahiri’s extensive experiences in both teaching and administration. As he reflects on his journey, it becomes evident that effective leadership requires a blend of passion, vision, and the ability to respond to the ever-changing educational landscape. Education Management A solid foundation in management is crucial for anyone aspiring to be a school head. This role encompasses various aspects of administration, including financial oversight, human resources, and organizational behavior. As Lahiri notes, management skills are essential for navigating the complexities of running a school, which is unlike any other organization due to its unique blend of educational and administrative responsibilities. Without formal training programs tailored for school leadership, effective management often relies on experience and self-education. Marketing In the era of increasing competition among schools, marketing skills have become invaluable for a school head. As Dev Lahiri emphasizes, understanding the community's needs and effectively communicating a school's unique selling points are vital for attracting prospective students and families. A successful head must position their school to cater to what families value, whether it be academic rigor, extracurricular activities, or community engagement. Public Relations Public relations is a key aspect of a head's responsibilities, involving interaction with various stakeholders including students, parents, faculty, and the broader community. Lahiri highlights the importance of maintaining positive relations and managing public perception, especially in an age where community feedback can be swift and unforgiving. A school head’s ability to communicate effectively and empathetically helps foster trust and understanding among all parties involved. Psychology Understanding human behavior and psychology is particularly beneficial for those in educational leadership. Dev Lahiri discusses how the insights gained from psychology help school heads manage conflicts, understand student needs, and build a supportive school culture. Empathy and emotional intelligence are vital components that enable heads to connect deeply with students and staff, fostering an environment of care and concern. Skills Leadership Leadership is at the core of successful school headship. According to Lahiri, effective leaders exhibit passion and possess a clear vision for their institution. They need to inspire their teams, delegate responsibilities judiciously, and foster a collaborative atmosphere among faculty and staff. Leadership also entails making tough decisions for the greater good, all while keeping student welfare as a top priority. Care and Concern Being a school head requires a deep-seated care for the well-being of students and staff. Lahiri emphasizes that this concern is foundational to building a supportive and thriving educational environment. Effective heads take the time to understand the challenges faced by their communities, leading with empathy and kindness to support and uplift those around them. Patience Patience is essential in the demanding world of education, as articulated by Lahiri. Navigating the complexities of school life—whether addressing student issues, handling parental concerns, or fostering teachers' professional growth—requires a level temperament and understanding that not all progress is immediate. For a school head, fostering a positive atmosphere takes time, and developing trust is a gradual process. Communication Effective communication ties all these skills together. As Dev Lahiri reflects, clarity in messaging is vital, ensuring that everyone within the school community feels informed and valued. The ability to communicate effectively not only fosters relationships but also facilitates the sharing of ideas and initiatives, which is essential for a cohesive school culture. Positives Change Maker One of the most fulfilling aspects of being a school head is the ability to be a change maker. Lahiri describes how school heads can profoundly impact their communities by instilling values like empathy, integrity, and social responsibility in students. The changes implemented can ripple through society as these young individuals take their lessons beyond the classroom. Impact People’s Lives Differently Lahiri notes that being able to influence and shape lives is a privilege that comes with the role of a school head. The lasting effects of a head's leadership can extend beyond academic achievements, impacting the social and emotional development of students—something that resonates deeply throughout their lives. Self Satisfaction The satisfaction derived from supporting students and educators alike is one of the most rewarding aspects of Lahiri's career. School heads have the unique opportunity to witness the fruits of their labor as they cultivate an environment where students flourish academically and personally, which brings immense personal fulfillment. Respect and Recognition As students grow and thrive, the respect and recognition earned by a school head become a testament to their dedication and hard work. Lahiri reflects on the relationships built over years, emphasizing that true acknowledgment comes from the love and respect of former students, a reminder of the impact a good school head has throughout their careers. Challenges 24x7 Working The demands of school headship imply being "on call" around the clock. Lahiri shares how, in a residential school setting, a head must remain vigilant and responsive to the needs of students and staff at all hours. The expectation of constant availability can be exhausting, but it is also a fundamental part of the role. High Responsibility Being responsible for the safety and education of countless students is a heavy burden. Lahiri acknowledges that every decision can significantly affect those in their care, which requires tremendous accountability. Navigating the pressure of ensuring a positive and enriching environment for all is a challenge that heads must be prepared to face. Lack of Formal Training The absence of formal training programs for school leaders is a notable challenge. As described by Lahiri, most heads learn on the job, which can be a steep curve for many who find themselves suddenly thrust into leadership roles without the necessary preparation. This situation demands resilience and a willingness to adapt quickly to new responsibilities. A Day Of School Headship A typical day for Dev Lahiri as a school head begins early in the morning with physical activities, setting the tone for leadership by example. The structured schedule includes breakfast, classroom interactions, meetings, and various responsibilities throughout the school day. While Lahiri values spending time with students, he also emphasizes the importance of engaging with faculty and administration to address ongoing demands. Each evening brings new challenges, requiring flexibility and attentiveness, as he often finds himself back in the school after hours to manage various situations. In every role Dev Lahiri has taken, he reflects on the myriad responsibilities, challenges, and joys that come with being a school head. Each day is unique and filled with opportunities to foster growth, understanding, and a sense of belonging within the school community. The journey of school headship is one of significant impact, personal growth, and the profound responsibility of shaping future generations. As Dev Lahiri's insights reveal, those who dare to lead in education hold the power to create change, inspire young minds, and leave a lasting legacy that benefits society as a whole.

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How to get into

School Headship?

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Links for this Talk

Head of School Late Dev Lahiri's LifePage:

[LifePage]
https://www.lifepage.in/page/devlahiri

LifePage Career Talk on School Headship

[Career]
https://www.lifepage.in/careers/school-headship

[Full Talk]
https://lifepage.app.link/20170628-0001

[Trailer]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8Z43ipPiaw

(School Headship, Dev Lahiri, Welham Boys School, Head Administration, School Principal, Faculty Head, Headship, Faculty Director, Vice Principal)

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