Is Kindness the Key to Effective School Leadership? In Conversation with Joanna Povall

What are the qualities of a good school leader? Many people point to traits like confidence, decisiveness and resilience. But could kindness be the real key to bringing the best out in your team?In this episode, Kai talks to Joanna Povall, Principal of Wales International School in Abu Dhabi, to explore why kindness is the sharpest tool a leader has. They discuss:What it means to lead with kindnessWhy being kind isn’t a weakness, but a strengthHow compassion helps leaders navigate challenges and bring the best out of their staffJoanna’s CHASE framework to show kindness as an education leaderIn this episode, Kai and Joanna discuss: 02:43 How Princess Diana’s legacy shapes school culture04:04 Why being kind is an important leadership quality, not a weakness10:09 Joanna’s CHASE framework for leading with kindness16:26 Why kindness and accountability go hand in hand20:14 Words we should avoid as educators25:56 Tips for keeping ego in check while showing strength29:07 How “chasing kindness” transforms34:04 Joanna’s advice to aspiring leadersAbout Our GuestJoanna Povall is the Principal of Wales International School, Abu Dhabi, named in honour of Diana, Princess of Wales. A respected international school leader, she is the creator of the CHASE framework for kindness in leadership. Joanna speaks regularly at conferences worldwide and is the author of an upcoming book on leadership and kindness.ResourcesScott, K. (2017). Radical Candor. St. Martin's PressFolkman, J. (2022). The Power of Kindness in Leadership. ForbesWales International School, Abu Dhabi (@walesinternationalschool6422)KaiPod NewsEnjoyed this episode? Keep the conversation going with KaiPod News — a fortnightly newsletter from Kai Vacher sharing fresh insights, stories, and strategies from education leaders around the world. Subscribe here.Related episodes of Educator’s Corner:Episode 18: Connecting with Empathy with Ed KirwanEpisode 14: Could this be more important than AI? with Leo ThompsonCreditsHosted by Kai VacherA BSM BSS productionPost-production by Communicating for Impact

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