At Mná Fest in January 2022, we discussed the gendered barriers to leadership in education.
50% of female teachers would consider leadership in education. (Rahoo Survey. March 2021)
Yet, according to DES statistics, only 1 in 15 female teachers are principals.
These barriers exist in Ireland and worldwide. You can learn about these barriers by attending our free online workshop “Aspiring Female Leaders in Education”.
At Mná Fest, we encouraged attendees to take a career challenge to pursue leadership or growth in their career.
This blog post shares 10 steps with you!
1. 5 Year Vision
Imagine yourself 5 years from now. What does your life look like? Reverse-engineer a 5-year plan to get you there! Bullet point some milestones for each year!
2. Mock Application Forms
Seek application forms for roles you may want to apply for. Do a mock application and ask a trusted colleague, friend or professional to review it for you.
Check out more job interview tips HERE!
3. Start Reading
Read! Whichever aspect of career or life you wish to make progress in, invest time in reading about it.
Books, blogs, trade magazines, government regulation/advice are all relevant for building your expertise.
Relevant Link:
4. Do the Maths!
Take time to consider your financial goals. What is your salary? What are your options for financial growth via promotion, new job, part-time work?
Set 3 financial goals for 2022.
If you need help, check out Rahoo’s Teacher Savings Plan Course HERE.
5. Assess Your Tribe
Who do you spend the most time with at work? What is the group culture like? Is it supportive? Is there begrudgery or negative commentary? Be conscious of your network and it’s impact on you and your success. Make a list of 5 people who inspire you to be better and believe in you.
Relevant Link:
6. Self-Care
Incorporate daily exercise into your routine. This can be a walk, run, swim, exercise class, yoga or pilates. There are plenty of free options online or sign up for on demand if you prefer. Make taking care of your health a non-negotiable.
7. The Head Plan
Join the Headplan app. It’s a free social media platform which shares positive affirmations, inspiring blogs and talks daily. Make an effort to engage with the platform to cultivate a positive mindset.
Relevant Link:
This is not an ad!!
8. Assess Your Time!
Make a weekly schedule or routine that allows you to be more organized with your time. Block time for exercising, reading, work, chores, family and friends. Allow time to work on new projects that focus on your progress.
9. Social Media
Clean up your social media profiles. Are they public? Are they visible to colleagues or prospective employers?
10. Linkedin
Set up a LinkedIn Profile and connect with colleagues. LinkedIn is used for professional purposes. Spend time exploring the site and join relevant networks.
Report Finds Better Teacher Training and Inclusion Needed to Promote Well-Being in Irish Schools
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EPV Summer Courses 2026
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We will have a few new courses to add to the collection so watch this space!
The Not-So-Secret Diary of an SNA – Magdalena Landziak
I am an experienced Special Needs Assistant, educator, and advocate for inclusive practice. I hold a Master’s degree in Inclusive Education and SEN and a Level 9 postgraduate qualification from Trinity College Dublin. Through my work with SNA Academy, I create high-quality CPD webinars and training programmes that support SNAs, teachers, and schools nationwide. As the Editor of AMYGDALA magazine, I am committed to amplifying SNA voices and promoting evidence-informed approaches that strengthen collaboration and inclusion. Outside of my professional work, I love travelling and seeking out experiences that inspire creativity and wellbeing.
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Rahoo.ie is your all-in-one destination for everything you need to thrive in your first years of teaching — from free CPD and EPV-approved courses to inspiring blog articles written by real teachers.
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