She Leads Because She Can
We believe that there is a need to provide support for female school leaders, who want to thrive and grow within international school settings.
In this series of fortnightly podcasts, we share our own lived experiences and the hard-hitting realities which have shaped us as successful leaders within the sector.
Each podcast forms a topical conversation which is experienced-based; sharing truths, sound council and suggested solutions.
We aim to be a source of courage, confidence and practical solutions to keep others ' leading because they can'.
She Leads Because She Can
#16 Inspirational leaders never age: with Pat Clark
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Pat, a distinguished educator whose remarkable six-decade career spans classroom teaching, school leadership, and international leadership training. Her energy and passion for the profession remain as vibrant as ever, offering a masterclass in sustained professional commitment.
Key Insights
Throughout the conversation, Pat shares profound reflections on what sustains school leaders through the inevitable challenges of educational leadership. Her wisdom is drawn from decades of firsthand experience navigating the complexities of leading educational communities.
Essential Advice for School Leaders
Pat emphasises several core principles for thriving in school leadership:
Stay Humble – Effective leadership begins with humility and a willingness to learn from everyone in your community.
Embrace Risk-Taking – Growth and innovation require stepping outside your comfort zone and being willing to try new approaches.
Trust Your Competence – Combat self doubt by recognising that you are, indeed, good enough for the role you hold.
Recognise Your Privilege – Leading a school community is a unique opportunity to shape lives and create positive impact.
Celebrate Small Wins – Remember that making even a small difference each day is meaningful and worthwhile.
Takeaway
Pat's enduring passion for education demonstrates that school leadership, when approached with the right mindset, can be a source of energy and fulfilment throughout one's entire career and beyond. Her message is clear: leadership is both a privilege and an opportunity to create lasting positive change in the lives of students, staff, and communities.