The Art of Headship is our long-standing exploration of how the role of Head is practised and experienced in UK independent schools. The latest phase of this research, 20% More – The Art of Headship 2026, was published in Autumn 2026.
During the Summer Term 2026, we conducted 56 structured interviews with current Heads to explore how the role is changing and what this means for those leading schools today. The trends that emerged are both striking and significant.
In September, we hosted a series of online roundtables to launch the findings. The initial webinars provided an opportunity to share the research with the Heads who participated in the study, alongside a selected group of UK Heads with strong existing relationships with RSAcademics.
The sessions were led by Richard Backhouse, alongside Martin Collier and Andrew Nott. Together, they brought a powerful combination of headship experience, governance expertise and deep insight into leadership across the independent schools sector.
If you would like to receive information about future 20% More webinars, please provide your details below.
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