Summary:

In this episode of Beyond the Status Quo, Tamara and Kathryn speak with Dr Jeremy Hannay, Executive Principal of Three Bridges and Wolffields Primary Schools, about leading schools through trust, curiosity and human-centred growth rather than fear and compliance. Drawing on his Canadian background and experience challenging traditional school improvement models, Jeremy explores the impact of high-stakes accountability on educators and learners. He argues that sustainable improvement comes from psychological safety, teacher agency, collaboration and a clear sense of purpose. Through examples from his own schools, he demonstrates that happy, thriving schools can also achieve exceptional outcomes without relying on excessive scrutiny or control.

Takeaways:

• Psychological safety is essential for innovation, learning and growth.

• Teacher development is most powerful when it is collaborative and research-informed.

• School culture shapes classroom culture.

• Strong outcomes can be achieved without excessive monitoring and compliance.

• Leaders create conditions for growth.

• Looking beyond national systems can inspire new possibilities.

• Meaningful change happens slowly and requires courage, curiosity and patience.

Links:

Three Bridges Primary School - Home

Home | Wolf Fields Primary School

Dr Jeremy Hannay | LinkedIn

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