Welcome to the latest issue of Leadership Focus. School leaders are navigating a period of significant change, with reforms to the curriculum and assessment system on the horizon, ongoing debates about special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and accountability, and continuing pressure on the profession itself. In this issue, we explore what these developments mean in practice and why it is more important than ever that school leaders’ voices are heard in shaping the future of education.
We look at the government’s Curriculum and Assessment Review and what it could mean for schools as ministers begin turning recommendations into policy. We also report from NAHT’s regional roadshow events, where leaders across England have been sharing their experiences and priorities directly with the union, and preview this year’s Annual Conference in Belfast, where members will come together to debate the big issues facing the profession. Alongside this, we take a closer look at the growing strain on professional relationships in schools and why, under increasing pressure, even strong leadership teams can find themselves struggling. Together, these features offer insight into the challenges facing school leaders today and the conversations that will shape what happens next.
As ever, we’re keen to hear any feedback you have, either about the magazine itself or the issues it covers. So feel free to drop us a line if you’d like to get in touch.
Best wishes
David Gilmore
NAHT head of communications
commsnaht@naht.org.uk
First published 20 March 2026