In partnership with
Pathway to Headship: Flourishing Headteacher Programme
Why this Course?
Suitable for:
Aspiring or existing headteachers
About the programme:
The Flourishing Headteacher Programme is an 18 month programme for those committed to leading their schools with hope, aspiration and heart so that they themselves, their pupils, colleagues and school community can flourish. for th It will equip leaders with the knowledge, capabilities and characteristics to balance the complexities of the role with purpose, strategic vision, courage, and compassion for long term impact. This programme offers space to step back, reflect deeply, and reconnect with what truly matters, developing personally and as a leader.
Course content:
The course provides carefully designed content, coaching and facilitation for participants to learn, reflect and connect with each other as they explore and develop their leadership through five domains of flourishing (Swaner & Wolfe 2021). Big questions unpicked during the course include: What kind of school leader do I want to be and what kind of school community do I want to shape? How can I sustain my wellbeing and support others to do the same as we fulfil the vision for the school? How can I motivate those I lead through acknowledgement, recognition and investment in professional development? How can I create relational trust with those I lead for the collective flourishing of the whole school community? How can I utilise the resources available to best serve the needs of my school now and in the future?
Incredible opportunities:
You will be gifted with time out of school to train and develop during this programme, including a kick-off conference at Bishopthorpe Palace, a visits to another school to learn practical insights, termly coaching, a secondment for one term, and networking opportunities across the trust and beyond.
An international movement brought to a local level:
This programme is being completed by school staff around the world. The Flourishing movement is an evidence-informed international approach that nurtures both personal growth and leadership transformation. Leaders are encouraged to reflect deeply on their values, beliefs and identity – because flourishing schools begin with flourishing individuals.
Learning Environment
Emerging leaders join a trust-wide group, guided by Pathfinder senior leaders, where they become part of a supportive and collaborative Community of Practice.
Colleagues are offered a mix of synchronous and asynchronous engagement. Surrounded by like-minded leaders working in similar contexts, colleagues are supported to build confidence, share ideas, and grow their leadership together.
For each of the 5 modules, you will engage with an online 20 minute diagnostic, 2 x 1 hour webinars, self study materials to engage with, coaching, and a face-to-face day of training.
Curriculum
The Flourishing Domains
The Flourishing Leaders programmes focuses on five interconnected domains that create the conditions for thriving in schools.
Flourishing Together
Purpose
A clear, shared purpose unites everyone in the school community, providing direction and meaning. It inspires collective commitment to a common vision grounded in the school’s identity, mission and values.
Relationships
Flourishing depends on the quality of our relationships. When pupils, teachers, leaders and families feel valued and connected, schools become inclusive communities where everyone can thrive within a supportive and innovative environment.
Teaching and Learning
Pupil success is closely linked to the ongoing learning of teachers and the wider school community. By working together as a ‘community of practice,’ teachers continually develop their skills, fostering intellectual growth alongside shared values and mutual respect.
Resources and Expertise
The environment matters. Beyond having sufficient physical, technological and human resources, flourishing requires responsible stewardship—valuing, sharing and managing resources fairly to support all members of the school community.
Wellbeing
The wellbeing of pupils and staff is vital. Healthy habits and resilience enable flourishing, but leaders must prioritise their own wellbeing first to maintain their capacity to support others effectively and avoid burnout.
Applications Welcome
This course is fully funded by Pathfinder Multi-Academy Trust.
We welcome applications from colleagues across the Trust. Please note that once you have submitted your application, a reference will be requested from your Headteacher/Line Manager as part of the application process. As such, we advise you to speak with them in the first instance and then begin your application.
Our February 2026 programme cohort is capped at 10 colleagues. We expect a high volume of applications. Please ensure you take your time to complete the application to your highest standard. Please do get in touch with the Pathfinder Education Partnership team if you require any support.
Applications from colleagues representing diverse and underrepresented backgrounds are especially welcome.
Please click here to apply.
Course Dates
Please note that the kick-off conference is at Bishopthorpe Palace on Friday 6th February 2026. The programme will finish summer term 2028.
Please click the button below to access all provisional course dates. These will be confirmed no later than the two weeks leading up to your kick-off conference.
You will find out what coaching group you’re in at the kick-off conference.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve seen it says “Church of England” – Do I have to be a committed Christian to complete the course?
No – the curriculum for each course has been designed and developed by the National Society of Education which is a part of the Church of England professional development team. Each course contains optional modules for those looking to bring their faith and Christian values into their practice, but all compulsory content is produced for a wide, diverse and multi-faith background.
