🔜 Next time: Bringing the data together to identify themes.

❓What information or data have I missed? ❓(7/7)

#SchoolLeadership #NewLeaders #EducationalLeadership #SchoolImprovement #MiddleLeaders

3️⃣Data isn't perfect
Every type of data has its pros and cons.

The key is not to rely on any single piece of data in isolation and be deliberate:

Think about what information you actually need.
Consider different methods of gathering it.
Reflect on how robust your conclusions will be. (6/7)

2️⃣Data Sources
You’ll likely be pulling information from:

Exam and assessment data
SEF and SIP documents
Stakeholder voice and surveys (students, staff, parents)
QA evidence (work scrutiny, lesson observations, reviews)
Behaviour logs
Financial data and budgets
Ofsted reports
Conversations (5/7)

1️⃣ Data Types
Not all data looks the same.

Hard Data : numbers, facts, and figures. It shows you the outcome.
Soft Data : - qualitative information about people or situations. It offers insight into the cause of an outcome.

You’ll need a mix of both to get a clear picture. (4/7)

The challenge? There’s a lot of information out there, and it can feel overwhelming to know where to start.

📚 Lets start with a list - that always helps! My New Leader Checklist (linked below) should help you get going.

But here are a few key things to keep in mind as you gather information: (3/7)

Day 1 - The first thing you need to do as a new leader is get your hands on some information.
Part of this is so you know how your new school functions. It's also the first step in being strategic. You can’t make decisions about moving forward until you understand your context. (2/7)

"you’re a parent; you’re someone who likes to wear makeup but doesn’t have time; you’re a control enthusiast; you’re time-poor in the mornings; and you’d like fresh dinners, but don’t have time to cook them"

Yes to all, especially makeup! I dream of having the energy for makeup!

I know GCSEs aren’t the only KS4 story, but this is where my expertise lies. Hopefully there is something for everyone analysing results this summer.

💫 What are your top tips for managing results day without the overwhelm? 💫 (8/8)

#GCSEs #GCSE2025 #EduSky #MiddleLeaders #GCSEResultsDay

1️⃣ You don’t have to do it all yourself! Delegation if your friend.
2️⃣ Only do the steps that fit your context.
3️⃣ You don’t need to do it all at once! Prioritise!
4️⃣ Focus on impact - progress over perfection. Even one useful action is better than none. (7/8)

In the weeks that follow

Exam results are a bridge between two work streams : what worked well last year, and what needs to change this year.

My Results Reflection Framework helps turn data into action, but remember: (6/8)

During the day
1️⃣ Communicate with your team. Celebrate the successes and thank them for all their hard work.
2️⃣ Make sure you have all the data you need for later analysis.
3️⃣ Peruse the national press and social media for relevant trends. (5/8)

On the morning
1️⃣ Grab some quick headlines. This will put your mind at ease.
2️⃣ Celebrate the pupils. They deserve your time, attention and praise - it’s their day.
3️⃣ Start thinking of remarks. Speak to the pupils whilst they are in the building. (4/8)

Beforehand
1️⃣ Set your success criteria. Have your targets to hand.
2️⃣ Plan for Post-16 progression decisions. These conversations immediately and you’ll think more clearly away from the emotions of the day.
3️⃣ Write your to-do list for the day so you can enjoy the day without forget anything (3/8)

...it completely changed the experience. I felt calmer, more in control, and enjoyed supporting my pupils and team much more.

If you’re a middle leader feeling the pressure this week (and whether you are looking at results now or the first day of term) here’s my plan for GCSE Results Day 👇 (2/8)

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