Brave heads : how to lead a school without selling your soul

All too often now schools are under immense pressure to demonstrate outstanding practice that can be documented on paper, which can often lead to schools that are genuinely improving their teaching standards long term and investing in pupils to fall short of the government's criteria for 'success'. As the Principal of a brand new high profile academy, Dave Harris knows first-hand the frustrations of providing genuine education for children while maintaining high standards according to the guidelines set out by authorities.

Dave has stuck by his principles, stating that 'it is a marathon - not a sprint' and while acknowledging the necessity for great results, has maintained a focus of providing young people with the education they deserve.

The key to this, he believes, is bravery!