In this episode, Adele and Keith talk with education leader and coach Shaheen Myers about what real inclusion and humane leadership look like in schools.

Shaheen shares how, during her time as Deputy Director of Education in Leeds, a citywide inclusion model contributed to a period of zero permanent exclusions and what it took culturally and structurally to get there. They explore how behaviour becomes the pinch point for inclusion, why “early intervention” must be more than a light‑touch programme, and how high‑stakes accountability is pushing many heads to the edge.

Shaheen also introduces her current work through her book The Human Side of School Leadership, focusing on coaching, wellbeing supervision and practical ways to lead with care, connection and courage without burning out.

Hosted by Adele Bates

Guests: Keith Bates, Shaheen Myers

Recorded via Riverside

Music by Pocketbeats Music, @pocketsbeatsmusic on Instagram

Production Support by Susan Outlaw

Operational Support by Hannah John