Shifting the Lens: How Coaching Can Allow Us to See Things Differently

In schools, there’s an unspoken expectation that tension is a natural part of daily life. The pressures of balancing student needs, staff demands, and external expectations can create a constant undercurrent of stress. While the capacity to manage this tension is often immense (and don’t we keep getting better and better at holding this stress?), it can also be draining. Over time, the system becomes accustomed to navigating these constant pressures, as though the experience of tension is just part of the job. But what if we could shift the focus?

What if, instead of expecting tension to be an unavoidable part of school life, we worked to build more cohesion within the system? What if, by fostering stronger connections between staff, leadership, and the wider community, we could make at least some aspects of school life smoother, more collaborative, and less exhausting?

Coaching offers a pathway to create this kind of cohesion. By providing staff with the space to reflect, communicate, and problem-solve together, coaching helps to build stronger, more trusting relationships. It empowers staff to engage with challenges more effectively, to share insights and strategies, and to align their efforts in ways that reduce friction. This can create a more harmonious environment, where tension is no longer something to simply endure, but something that can be managed and addressed collectively.

When coaching becomes embedded into the culture of a school, it helps to create a shared commitment to growth, well-being, and collaboration. Staff feel more supported and connected, which can reduce the sense of isolation that often accompanies the stresses of teaching. By focusing on cohesion rather than simply managing tension, schools can build an environment where staff are empowered to thrive, not just survive.

In a culture of coaching, the expectation of tension is replaced by the possibility of collaboration, reflection, and shared effort. The challenges are still there, but they no longer feel like burdens to carry alone. Instead, they become opportunities for growth, both for individuals and the school as a whole. The result is a more sustainable, energised, and cohesive school environment—one where staff can focus on what matters most: fostering student success.

An Invitation

If you disagree, I assume that your idea of what coaching is might differ from mine. I’m aware that this is the challenge—everyone has a different idea of what coaching is… and is not. Therefore, working out what it truly is can be helpful to explore through conversation. If you’d like to discuss coaching and how it might support your school, I’d love to hear from you.