• Michael Fitzimons; Principal Trinity Academy Sixth Form; Integrity is key and trust your team
    Jan 9 2026

    This week's episode is slightly different as our very own Mike Fitzsimons swaps his interviewers chair for the hot seat.

    Mike tells us about his leadership journey that has led him to being the founding principal of Trinity Academy Sixth Form. His story is sure to resonate with leaders from all sectors and levels as he talks about the importance of integrity and humility to support leading successful organisations.

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    38 mins
  • Shona Vallance: Lead Teacher (KS4 Quality of Education) & Curriculum Leader, Humanities | Professionally curious, always striving to be 10% braver
    Dec 19 2025

    Shona Vallance is a founding member of staff at Trinity Academy St Edward’s. Hailing from Barnsley,

    Shona shares her journey of helping to build an outstanding school in her hometown, reflecting on the leadership lessons she’s learned along the way and the passion that drives her professional curiosity.

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    25 mins
  • Gemma Mitchell, HR Director at Trinity MAT: Expect the Unexpected
    Dec 12 2025

    We’re joined by Gemma Mitchell, Director of HR at Trinity Multi-Academy Trust. Gemma offers a fascinating look into the world of human resources, exploring how the profession supports leaders at every level of education and how to progress within HR.

    She’s a fantastic guest, and you’ll hear her explain why becoming an expert in your role is essential before taking the next step.

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    39 mins
  • Tom Taylor: Principal Trinity Academy Bradford: The value in people and listening more
    Dec 5 2025

    Welcome to this week's episode. Today, we hear from Tom Taylor, principal at Trinity Academy Bradford, who takes on a journey through his career from being an early career teacher to leading a turnaround school.

    We hear his advice on the importance of character and meaning what you say. He also shares insights into how he has managed different steps in his career and the importance of having a strong network.

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    44 mins
  • Lisa McIntosh: Associate SLT Inclusion Trinity Academy Cathedral: Don't stop and being a good communicator
    Nov 27 2025

    To open season three, we were delighted to be joined by Lisa McIntosh. Lisa has an incredible story of leadership in many different contexts.

    As an athlete, she was the last person to lead a Great Britain rugby league team to a series win over Australia; whilst in education, Lisa has worked with some of Wakefield's most vulnerable young people for more than 20 years.

    Lisa has seen so much over her career and is the very deserving winner of a Pearson Teaching Award.

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    27 mins
  • Season review: Developing successful teams and mission alignment
    Jun 27 2025

    Welcome to the final episode of season 2. In this week's special season review our presenters reflect on their favorite interview, We explore some of the key themes to emerge from this season including; building a successful team, the importance of mission alignment and celebrating longevity within teaching and education.

    A special thank you to all who have taken the time to share their journeys and take part in this season.

    Join us as we look back on some of these key moments from season 2

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    28 mins
  • Rob Marsh, Executive Principal: Having a positive mindset and do your homework
    Jun 20 2025

    Welcome to this week's episode. Today, we hear from Rob Marsh as he shares his career progression - from senior leadership to becoming an executive principal.

    We explore the importance of teamwork, the value of culture, and the need to truly understand and support young people with the daily challenges they face.

    Rob also shares his three key pieces of career advice and highlights the importance of becoming an expert in your field.

    In the final round of the book title challenge, we have our final scores for this season.

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    33 mins
  • Nikki Waite, Assistant Principal Teaching and Learning at Trinity Academy St Edwards: Honesty is the best policy and knowing who you are
    Jun 13 2025

    In this episode, we sit down with Nikki as she unpacks her inspiring journey as an assistant principal. Nikki shares advice for new teachers and emphasizes the importance of knowing who you are—and equally, who you're not.

    Nikki talks about her passion for continual improvement within the classroom and emphasizes the importance in the culture of supporting each other within the Trust.

    With the book title challenge nearing completion can Elaine or Mike stop Alex this week from securing another win?

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    33 mins