First week of a new job as Deputy Director of Teacher Services, so what are my reflections? Firstly, and most importantly, there’s a lot to be excited about — I genuinely feel like we’re transforming how DfE engages with the sector, and if we get it right, we can drive the whole department work even better.
Rose — What’s gone well?
- My leadership team has pulled together so well already, despite the onslaught of negativity from the press and, at times, the department.
- It’s been interesting engaging with different Senior Leadership Teams on the policy and digital delivery sides in different ways. Things won’t be easy, but I see good potential to work with peers to make things better (E.g. Ship more good things to recruit, and retain more teachers).
- Lots of people told me how happy they were that I’d got the job, from SEOs in the support team, to Directors, old G6 peers and new DD peers. The range and number of people made me feel really good.
- I’ve had some amazing chats with peers already — I really love that people trust me enough to come to me with opinions, concerns and feedback.
Thorn — What’s been hard?
- I just about managed to keep my head above water, but only by working to 1am most nights. That’s not sustainable, but I’m scared to let go of anything this early on.
- There’s so much that goes into just keeping the lights on — my rusty (unused?!) skills at delegation need some improvement. (Edit: I just reread my first post where I thought the civil service has less BS than elsewhere — now I realise just how protected I was!)
Bud — What are the opportunities to flourish?
- A couple of years ago, I would have felt overwhelmed and probably scared by the amount of negative press coverage, the cost of living crisis, and attacks on the civil service. Now, it just makes me more angry, and more determined. Me and my teams have nothing to hide, and can prove our value, so bring it on.
- A colleague asked me if I had a plan, and was worried that I hadn’t been explicit and vocal about the future direction I wanted to take TS in. Next week I’ll be unveiling my 100 day plan with my LT to see what they think…
- A colleague recommended An Elegant Puzzle, by Will Larson, to me. Its a great, practical read.
