#Highlights21 - Liz Gregory FCCT

By Liz Gregory  @lgregory1002   

How have I been #10%Braver?

In 2021 I took the plunge to start applying for Headships. Three years into my Deputy Headship, I knew it was a little early but thought I should start trying, to get feedback and hone my interview skills. It would also help me to decide the type of school I wanted to lead. Since the first application I have been short listed and long listed as well as getting no further than the agency application, but each time I have found the experience immensely beneficial – I've learnt about myself, schools, agencies and governors. It has required me to take risks and feel confident enough that I can go for it, and I am really pleased that I have been #10%Braver.

In the autumn of 2021, I attended the annual HMC Deputy Head Conference. A few years ago, I'd attended an informal gathering of a few women in senior leadership wanting to start a network, but it hadn't really gained momentum. This year, I decided I wanted to try reinstating it. I doubted that anyone would attend or be interested but asked for a place in the programme. It was a bit last minute, but it was included. I was amazed at the response! Most of the women at the conference came. We shared our experiences of being a senior leader at an HMC school and all expressed a genuine desire to stay in touch and support one another. So glad that I took that initial step to organise it.

I have the immense privilege of being elected as a Council member for the Chartered College of Teaching. My tenure runs for four years and was announced at the November AGM. When I wrote my text, explaining why I wanted to be elected, I really wasn't sure that I would be successful; thinking that others who are better known or have more experience than me would be elected. However, I wanted to try – nothing ventured nothing gained. Very glad I did!