Best Practice

Twelve ways to lead like a turtle

Do you lead like a turtle? John Dabell explains why turtles can teach us a lot about effective school leadership


Imagine if you had a reputation in your school for “leading like a turtle”. You'd probably think it was an insult and a toxic plot to oust you. Far from it. Turtle leadership is highly regarded and something to be proud of. Let's take a look.


1, A turtle makes progress only when it sticks its neck out.

Turtles only advance when they stick their neck out and effective leaders know that they will have to stick their neck out for what they believe in.

Those who stay in their protective shells play it safe, but this isn't leading, it is hiding.

Passionate and principled leaders take risks, they have clear beliefs and values, and they concern themselves with doing the right things.

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