From the Paddock

In schools, we often associate leadership with titles. Positions like coordinator, assistant principal or head of faculty come with clear roles and expectations. But in reality, some of the most impactful leadership happens without a title at all.

I have worked across Melbourne, Darwin and regional Victoria in a range of educational settings. Over the years, I have led teams through curriculum planning, supported student wellbeing programs, mentored early career teachers and helped create calm during periods of change. And for the most part, I did that without holding a formal leadership role.

At times, I was encouraged to apply for positions. I was told I had the skills to succeed. I was told I would have done a great job. But in each case, the role was given to someone with a leadership title already attached to their name. And in each case, I quietly stepped away.

I do not share this to complain. I share it because I know I am not the only one.

Being overlooked can have a lasting impact. Even when the feedback is positive, it is hard not to internalise the message that your leadership is not real unless it comes with a title. Over time, I began to speak less, withdraw from certain spaces and question my place. I even received feedback early on that I had come in too confident, and that it was good I had lost some of that. It was said casually, but it stuck.

What helped me make sense of all of this was returning to the thinking I had explored in my postgraduate study. Through my Master of Education in Educational Leadership at Southern Cross University, I had the chance to examine distributed leadership, psychological safety and the kind of culture that enables people to thrive. It reminded me that leadership is not about hierarchy. It is about purpose, presence and trust.

I have seen so many educators lead in ways that never make it onto a CV. They hold teams together. They keep students grounded. They guide quietly and consistently from the middle. And often, they are the people others turn to when things are uncertain. That is leadership too.

Now, as I prepare for a new chapter, relocating and making space for whatever comes next, I am holding onto that truth. I am still an educator. I am still passionate about wellbeing, culture and learning. And I am still a leader, even if my nameplate has never said so.

For anyone else who has led without being named a leader, I see you. Your work matters. Your influence matters. And your leadership is very real.