In recent years, many school leaders have prioritised professional development to tackle increasingly complex challenges, notably the youth mental health crisis, the growing achievement gap in Australian classrooms, and the rapid rise of AI.
A 2023 study by Monash University found that while most teachers access PD, just 18% consider it ‘plentiful’. With teachers and students about to head back to the classroom, the push is on for targeted learning to help schools adapt and improve outcomes.
One leader who understands the importance of this is Dr Paul Teys, a former principal of two prestigious K-12 independent schools and a celebrated thought leader in educational leadership.
Renowned for mentoring aspiring principals and navigating the complexities of school leadership, Dr Teys recently shared valuable insights into how leaders can be empowered meet the demands they’ll be facing in 2025.
The power of sustained, authentic, and impactful learning
When asked what PD opportunities he believes will be most critical for preparing school leaders in 2025 and beyond, Dr Teys said the priority should be on sustained, authentic, and impactful learning for school leaders.
“This includes voracious reading and reflective writing sharpen strategic thinking and decision-making,” Dr Teys told The Educator. “Leaders should also network with like-minded professionals and participate in authentic forums foster growth through shared wisdom.”
Dr Teys added that leadership simulation training, tailored workshops, and scenario-based learning deepen the critical skills of leaders.
“Sustained engagement with subject matter experts ensures practical application and ongoing refinement of skills,” he said.
“Finally, partnering with an experienced former principal as a coach provides invaluable insights rooted in lived experience. Above all, PD must build capacity for strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, and adaptability to empower leaders to thrive.”
Maintain empathy and human-centred leadership
With the importance of empathy and human-centred leadership highlighted in his work, Dr Teys said there are several important ways that PD programs can better cultivate these skills in school leaders.
“Empathy and human-centred leadership are foundational to thriving school communities. PD programs can cultivate these skills by immersing leaders in reflective and experiential learning opportunities,” he said.
“For example, peer coaching, case studies of complex interpersonal dynamics, and role-playing scenarios can help leaders practice active listening, emotional regulation, and compassionate decision-making.”
Dr Teys said programs should encourage leaders to explore diverse perspectives by engaging with students, parents, and staff through structured feedback.
“Ultimately, embedding empathy into leadership practice requires PD to balance self-awareness training with actionable tools for fostering psychological safety, trust, and a culture of care within schools.”
Tailored PD will fuel next-gen leadership growth
Looking ahead, Dr Teys said the future of professional development for school leaders lies in innovative, focused, and accessible learning platforms.
“Micro-credentialing programs, such as those offered by Microsoft’s Education Centre or Melbourne University’s professional development courses, allow leaders to gain targeted skills in areas like equity, instructional leadership, or crisis management,” he said.
“Virtual coaching models provide access to expert mentors globally, offering personalised guidance. Artificial intelligence-driven simulations can help leaders practice decision-making in complex scenarios with real-time feedback, while immersive VR experiences can refine skills like conflict resolution.”
Dr Teys said large-scale conferences, while valuable for networking, are often costly and less impactful compared to these tailored, flexible approaches.
“Personalised PD that integrates practical learning with on-demand, specific expertise will define the next era of leadership growth.”