Leadership Scholarship programme case study: Lorna John

 

 

How has taking part in the Leadership Scholarship Programme shaped or transformed your development as a leader?

The Culham St Gabriel’s Leadership Scholarship Programme has been a transformative experience for me as a Head of Department for Religious Education, shifting my leadership from instinctive to contemporary, theoretical and values-driven actions. Through coaching, mentoring and self-directed study, I developed clearer self-awareness, stronger communication and greater confidence across research, curriculum, classroom and political engagement.

 What impact has the programme had on your practice, your school or organisation, or the wider religion and worldviews education community?

The Leadership Programme has strengthened my confidence, strategic clarity and subject expertise, enabling me to lead with purpose rather than simply manage. It has improved my skills in syllabus and curriculum design within my Academy, across the Academy Trust and within the Borough.

It has also improved my ability to develop, motivate and enable mutual staff professionalism and subject confidence. Coaching enhanced my ability to influence, engage colleagues and build collaborative structures. Beyond my organisation, the programme connected me to a local and national network, allowing me to share best practice, contribute to wider discussions and advocate for high-quality, inclusive Religion and Worldviews education.

What did you find most valuable about the programme?

I most valued the programme’s blend of research, personalised coaching, and collaborative learning. Engaging with other likeminded scholarship candidates broadened my perspective on approaches within the subject. Coaching and mentoring strengthened my self-awareness, confidence, and ability to turn theory into meaningful action. Working with a diverse, passionate cohort provided challenge, inspiration and an ongoing professional network that continues to support my leadership.

Where has your journey taken you since completing the programme, and how has it helped you take the next step in your career?

Since completing the programme I have achieved Chartered Teacher Status. I’ve gained the confidence and strategic clarity to move into wider leadership beyond my school role as Head of RE. I was elected Vice Chair of my local SACRE and have since joined the NASACRE Executive as a Trustee, contributing to local and national Religious Education development. The programme equipped me with credibility, networks and research-informed leadership skills that enabled these opportunities and continue to guide my impact on the wider Religion and Worldviews community.

Why do you think people should apply to the Leadership Scholarship programme?

Applying to the Culham St Gabriel’s Leadership Scholarship Programme offers a transformative, research-informed pathway to grow as a leader in Religion and Worldviews education with local and national influence. With expert mentoring, high-quality training and a supportive cohort, it builds confidence, clarity of vision and practical leadership skills. The programme helps to influence change in context and connects you to a powerful network, opening doors to wider opportunities. It develops not just leadership abilities and confidence but the capacity to shape the future of Religion and Worldviews Education with insight and integrity.