Education Support in Northern Ireland and Scotland

This expansion means that school and college leaders in these regions now have access to fully funded Professional Supervision, helping them navigate the pressures of leadership with expert guidance and emotional support.

One school leader who has seen the benefits of Professional Supervision first-hand is Geoff, principal of a primary school in Northern Ireland. A passionate advocate for Nurture Provision in Northern Ireland, Geoff has always prioritised the wellbeing of his pupils. However, he acknowledges that school leadership itself comes with immense challenges and pressures.

"Before I signed up for professional supervision, I didn’t know much about it,” Geoff admits. “But when I found out it was funded at no cost to our school, I figured I had nothing to lose!"

Like many school leaders, Geoff often found himself carrying the emotional weight of his role. He was aware that professionals in other high-pressure jobs, such as counsellors, regularly accessed supervision, and he saw the potential for school leaders to benefit in the same way.

"When I first started, I quickly saw how professional supervision was different from coaching. It felt more like the facilitator was holding up a mirror, allowing me to see myself clearly. Instead of offering advice or solutions, they stood alongside me, asking thought-provoking questions that helped me reflect deeply on my role as a school leader. Through this process, I was able to challenge some of the unhelpful self-perceptions and critical thoughts I’d been carrying around, which, in turn, boosted my confidence and enhanced my professionalism."

One of the most valuable aspects of the sessions, Geoff explains, was having immediate support following a particularly challenging and traumatic work-related event. As a school leader, he is often the person that staff turn to in times of crisis. Having a dedicated, confidential space to offload and process his emotions proved to be invaluable.

"Even now, I find myself looking back at my notes and reflecting on the lessons I learned. I continue to use those insights to enhance my practice and maintain my wellbeing. For me, professional supervision has been incredibly valuable. It empowers you, helps you with personal growth and emboldens you on your journey as a school leader."

Geoff was so impressed by the impact of professional supervision that he encouraged his vice principal, who is responsible for safeguarding at the school, to try it. At first, they were hesitant, worried it might be too ‘fluffy,’ but after just two sessions, they reported a noticeable improvement in their work-life boundaries and their relationships with colleagues.

Geoff explains, "It wasn’t just about advice or problem-solving; it gave them the time and space to reflect on where they were as a professional, which you don’t often get in a busy school environment."

With this new funding, more school leaders across Northern Ireland and Scotland will be able to access the same level of expert support. Professional Supervision provides a vital space for reflection, resilience-building, and personal growth, ensuring that those at the helm of our schools have the tools they need to thrive.

This service is making a tangible difference, ensuring that those who dedicate their lives to education are supported every step of the way.