LeadersSafeguardingCPDGovernorHubKeyGPT
Training Hub

How to develop your middle leaders

As a senior leader, you'll always be looking out for up-and-coming talent among your staff. Learn how to show your middle leaders that you recognise their potential and take action to grow it within your school, so you can develop the next generation of senior leaders.

Last reviewed on 7 May 2026
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 7182
Contents
  1. Invest in your middle leaders to boost retention and develop your school
  2. Provide support from the top-down
  3. Give middle leaders the space to make their own decisions 
  4. Identify stretch projects from your SIP 
  5. Offer mentoring and coaching to accelerate progress 
  6. Encourage leaders to take part in networking opportunities 

Invest in your middle leaders to boost retention and develop your school

Recognising and developing talent within your school can help you to:

  • Retain your aspirational leaders – it shows them they're appreciated, and that your school is invested in their development
  • Reach your school development goals – with more distributed leadership, you'll be able to upskill your staff and limit the burden on your SLT
  • Develop skills in your team – you'll have greater scope to promote internally and adapt to staffing changes
  • Strengthen succession planning – helping you prepare future leaders and reduce recruitment challenges

Head to The Key CPD to find a library of video resources, training packs and courses to help you drive positive changes around middle leadership in your school.

As a SLT, make sure you're providing the right support to help middle leaders’ development. Help them manage their responsibilities, so they have a strong foundation to build and