As I begin this new chapter, I’ve taken time to reflect on the journey that’s brought me here. I spent 18 years in Primary Education, 13 of those in senior leadership, working alongside incredible leaders and learning deeply about myself and what it means to lead well. 

My greatest successes weren’t Ofsted or SIAMs inspections, but the everyday wins: the persistently absent child who arrived on time because of the relationships we built; the families who shared that our support had been invaluable; the staff member who felt valued, listened to, and began to flourish. Being a Headteacher was an honour, full of laughter, tears, and all the unique, joyfully chaotic moments only educators truly understand.

So why move on? Becoming a mum in 2019 changed everything. My beautiful boy, now six, turned me into a proud football mama. As he’s grown, I’ve needed to be present on the sidelines and in his adventures (I’ve quickly become an expert in trains and other modes of transport) yet I found myself torn between being the Headteacher I wanted to be and the mum he deserved. The guilt of being mentally elsewhere, thinking about emails and to-do lists, made it clear that something had to change.

In reflecting on what truly matters to me, I realised my next chapter needed to focus on coaching and consultancy. I’m passionate about empowering others to reach their potential, skilled at improving behaviour through positive relationships and consistency, and still in love with phonics and the power of early reading. Now, I’m able to focus on the parts of leadership I loved the most, while being the mum I want to be, a true win-win. I know there are many mums who are Headteachers and manage both brilliantly, but we each have our own unique circumstances. I firmly believe we should feel supported and empowered to pursue our careers in the way that works best for us.

Coaching has been one of the most transformative tools in my leadership journey. I was fortunate to work with a wonderful coach through NLP training, who taught me the power of staying curious, avoiding unhelpful narratives, and embracing perception. Her simple questions, such as “What have they done to show they’re mad at you?” or “What would it look like if you did have time?” consistently helped me pause, reflect, and move forward purposefully. She also taught me the importance of silence, creating the space to find my own solutions and quieten the imposter syndrome that often appeared in busy periods.

I’m now completing my coaching apprenticeship with the CVP Group, who introduced me to the inspiring WomenEd community, a global network that champions women in education, explores barriers to leadership, and gives women the knowledge and confidence to make empowered career choices. Through this journey, I’ve already connected with people whose values align with mine, and I’m excited to offer coaching that empowers women to feel confident, capable, and in control of their paths.

Heading into 2026, I’m filled with curiosity and passion, ready to begin this new career while still being the loudest, proudest mummy on the sidelines.

By Gemma Yapp