SHEPHERDING TALENT – AN INFORMAL FORMATION PROGRAMME FOR ASPIRING CATHOLIC SCHOOL LEADERS

Shepherding Talent is a pioneering informal formation programme in which teachers identified as having potential for leadership are challenged to explore their vocation to lead. The content of the programme is based around the imperative for all Catholic schools to maintain a balance between school improvement and Catholic distinctiveness. The integrity of vocation and profession in the context of discipleship figures prominently and defines the nature of the seminars. Through workshops, the mission of the Catholic educator is elucidated alongside a consideration of personal disposition and values, inviting a critically reflective response to leadership. This interplay and its impact will be discussed during the presentation and the next stages to more formal and lifelong opportunities for formation through the Master’s degree in Catholic School Leadership at St Mary’s University, Twickenham.