A Solution-Focused Approach to Leadership | A Conversation with Vicky Essebag & Tara Gretton

Struggling with staff meetings that spiral into problem talk? This episode explores solution-focused communication and how school leaders can transform their school culture by changing the questions they ask. Vicky Essebag and Tara Gretton share practical strategies for shifting from deficit-based conversations to hope-filled dialogue that actually moves your team forward. You'll discover why asking "what's wanted?" instead of "what's wrong?" creates the conditions for real change in your school community.

We dive deep into how solution-focused approaches can help school leaders build stronger relationships with staff, students, and parents. Learn about the power of noticing small wins, creating fresh starts each day, and why those quick corridor conversations matter more than you think. Whether you're dealing with challenging parent meetings, staff frustrations, or student behaviour concerns, this conversation offers a different way forward that focuses on strengths, capabilities, and collective vision rather than endless troubleshooting.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

• Solution-Focused Brief Therapy Association (SFBTA) - North American organization offering professional learning opportunities
• SF in Organizations (SFIO) - Resources and examples of solution-focused practice in education
• Journal of Solution Focused Practices - Latest research and conversations about solution-focused approaches

Vicky Essebag:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vickyessebag
• Website: relationspaces.com

Tara Gretton:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tara-gretton-b3088b18
• Website: solutionrevolution.co.uk

Episode Partners

Teacher Development Trust

International Curriculum Association

Join Shane's Intensive Leadership Programme at educationleaders.co/intensive

Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports school leaders globally. Passionate about empowment, he is the author of the best-selling 'Change Starts Here.' Shane is a leading educational voice in the UK, Asia and around the world.

You can find Shane on LinkedIn and Bluesky. or shaneleaning.com

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