I would love to understand why some private schools in Spain keep their heads of school out of sight—off their websites, absent from social media (especially LinkedIn), and invisible in school life. It feels like a missed opportunity to showcase such an important figure in the school community.
As an education consultant, I’ve come across schools where the head of school is as elusive as a 🦄. No such thing as a “Head’s Welcome” on the website. In fact, it can sometimes be a challenge to uncover their identity. Surely this is an error?
True story: on one school visit, I met with two “senior school leaders” who shared the role of head of the school. A few days later, I received an urgent call from the school owner requesting a meeting as he was, in fact, the “real” head of the school. Crazy but true.
And then there’s social media. Some heads are not even on LinkedIn. Whilst others simply ✅ tick the box but with just a handful of followers (not very inspiring).
I get it: heads are busy running schools. But prospective parents deserve more than a mystery figure or a substitute marketer in charge. A visible head speaks volumes:
🫵 Parents want a personal connection. Seeing the head’s face builds trust.
🫵 Parents want to know who’s leading their child’s education.
🫵 And love or loathe LinkedIn (I’m still on the fence), an active presence there can boost a head’s credibility in the global education world.
Why Visibility in School Leadership Matters
Building Trust and Community
A visible head of school can significantly impact the school community. Parents feel more connected when they know who is leading the school. This visibility builds trust and fosters a sense of community. A head who is seen at the school gates, sporting events, and school activities demonstrates commitment and engagement.
Leadership and Accountability
The head of school is the embodiment of the school’s values, ethos, and methodology. When parents and students see the head actively participating in school life, it reassures them that the school is being well-led. This presence provides a sense of accountability and reassurance that the school’s leadership is accessible and transparent.
Role Model for Students
Students benefit from seeing their head of school as a role model. A visible head who interacts with students regularly can inspire them and provide a tangible example of leadership. This can be especially impactful in forming students’ own aspirations and understanding of leadership.
Real Stories from Parents
“Hear hear! It is really notable to me that when I’m talking to families about the schools that they love, the common reason is so frequently about how visible and engaged their head is, how they are at the school gates in the morning, on the sidelines at sport matches etc. A strong and visible leadership can make all the difference to the whole sense of community and belonging within a school.”
“I seek them out and praise them when they show themselves. As a family, we are lucky; in the two different schools my kids go to, the heads are present, personable, and very involved!! (Or maybe I chose them for that reason 🤔😉).”
“Heads should be part of what is happening in the day-to-day, hopefully teaching if they can, invigilating exams during the summer sessions, and being available to the students and being a support to their ideas and ambitions.”
The Importance of a Balanced Approach
While the visibility of heads is crucial, it is also essential to celebrate and focus on the amazing work of teachers, students, and parents. A school is, after all, a collection of relationships. Platforms like LinkedIn can be an excellent medium for exploring new ideas in education and industry, and for celebrating these collective efforts.
Personal Experiences and Speculations
“I moved to Madrid recently. In our old (public) school in NJ the principal was really close to all the parents and children. He knew them all by name and would be outside to greet them and talk to them at the start and end of the day. It was wonderful. Here in Madrid, I have never talked to the LS principal at all. She’s not close to the parents at all. It definitely makes me trust her less than I would if she were friendly and approachable.”
“The principal at my son’s school (international school in the center of Madrid) is extremely visible. In the mornings and afternoons, she’s always there directing children to their caregivers, chatting with kids and families. She’s also very involved in activities in or outside the school. She even hosts a coffee with the principal for parents to have time with her. She joined the school a few years ago, but she’s done a fantastic job getting to know the children and parents. That’s been a real pleasure. I think it helps with building the community in the school and should start at the head leading the way.”
Final Thoughts
It’s time for private schools in Spain to recognise the importance of visible leadership. A head of school who is present, approachable, and engaged can transform the school community, build trust, and enhance the overall educational experience for students and parents alike.
I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences on the importance of visible school leadership.
If you’re planning a move to Spain and trying to make sense of schools in Madrid, there are a few ways to get started — depending on where you are in the process.
Some families begin with a clear overview of how the system works. Others prefer personalised guidance, or hands-on school search support.
You can see the different options here and choose what suits your situation.
Sinéad Galvin is the Founder of Steps into Spain, a boutique education consultancy based in Madrid. She helps families from all over the world find the right school for their child and navigate the Spanish admissions process. Get in touch via stepsintospain.es or book your free call to get started.
