EP229: Leora Cruddas on Leadership, Social Justice in Education, and Embracing Controversial Perspectives

Leadership Conversations with Jonno White Podcast

In this episode of The Leadership Conversations Podcast, Jonno White sits down with Leora Cruddas, the founding Chief Executive of the Confederation of School Trusts in England. Leora shares her powerful journey from growing up in apartheid South Africa to leading a national organization that advocates for school trusts. Her story is one of resilience, passion, and a deep commitment to social justice in education.

Leora begins by reflecting on her early years teaching in a township in South Africa, where she witnessed firsthand the transformative power of education in a community that valued learning as a means of overcoming systemic inequality. This profound experience shaped her lifelong belief that education should be a tool for social justice, not just social mobility. She explains the difference between these two concepts, arguing that true social justice lifts up all children, not just a select few.

Throughout the conversation, Leora delves into the challenges of leading an organization that must balance diverse opinions and navigate the contested space of education policy. She emphasizes the importance of humility in leadership, particularly as one gains more influence. Humility, she argues, is crucial in preventing leaders from creating echo chambers that reinforce their own beliefs rather than challenging them.

Leora also shares her thoughts on the importance of a knowledge-rich curriculum, which she believes is essential for providing all children with the skills they need to succeed. She critiques the global trend towards skills-based curricula, arguing that knowledge is the foundation for critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. This perspective, while controversial, is supported by evidence from around the world showing that knowledge-rich curricula benefit all students, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

As the conversation unfolds, Leora offers advice for leaders in education, particularly women who may struggle with imposter syndrome. She encourages them to embrace their strengths and recognize their worth, drawing on the wisdom of literature and personal experience.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, education policy, and the role of schools in creating a more just society. Tune in to gain valuable insights from one of the leading voices in education today.