Leadership during the pandemic – Annual Report 2020-21 insights

Responding to challenges

Leaders were flexible and creative during the pandemic, continually adapting in innovative ways. They used guidance and advice from the Welsh Government, local authorities and umbrella organisations, which allowed them to re-open and operate safely.

Leaders also took advantage of the increased use of virtual technology. This helped them to feel less isolated. It also improved communication with stakeholders as well as with other leaders in their area or local authority. They sought advice from each other and shared practice.

Sharing practice

Stepping Stones Pre-School, Monmouthshire, is one of the many cameos in the report that brings to life how providers adapted. The manager worked in partnership with colleagues in around 20 other settings in the local authority and other groups organised by the Early Years Advisory Teacher and umbrella organisations, to support one another holding regular virtual meetings where they:
•    Discussed common issues
•    Helped each other to follow local and national guidance
•    Discovered and replicated good practice from other settings 
•    Found assurance that everyone was following the right protocols.

For more cameos on leadership and other areas of provision, explore the summaries for your sector from the Annual Report.

Sector summaries

Non-school settings for children under five
Primary schools
Secondary schools
Maintained all-age schools
Maintained special schools
Independent special schools
Independent mainstream schools
Independent specialist colleges
Pupil referral units
Local government education services