Columba 1400 secures funding for 20 new Head Teachers’ Leadership Academies

We are thrilled to announce that Columba 1400 has received new funding from the Scottish Government and match funding from The Hunter Foundation to deliver 20 additional Head Teachers’ Leadership Academies (HTLAs) across Scotland.

This support means that 280 more Head Teachers and Deputy Head Teachers from Additional Support Needs, Virtual Heads, Early Years, Primary and Secondary Schools in Scotland can now take part in our values-based leadership experience without worrying about funding, giving more school leaders the opportunity to explore their values, strengthen their confidence, and lead with purpose.

Our HTLAs have helped over 1,700 Head Teachers and school leaders reconnect with what matters most – building positive school cultures where both staff and young people can thrive.

Marie Clare Tully, Chief Executive of Columba 1400, said:

This investment allows us to reach even more Head Teachers and Deputy Head Teachers across Scotland. It is a privilege to be alongside school leaders as they pause, reflect and reconnect with their values. We see each and every day how this experience contributes to creating the conditions for cultural change through values-based leadership. We are grateful to the Scottish Government for their re-investment and to The Hunter Foundation for their continued support and their belief in what is possible.

Education Secretary, Jenny Gilruth said:

As a former teacher, I have seen first-hand the pivotal role that head teachers and deputy heads have at the heart of schools and across the wider community. They help drive up standards in classrooms, and this has resulted in clear improvements in attainment nationally and better futures for children and young people. They also provide invaluable support to teachers and staff in their schools, improving the working environment and ensuring everyone feels valued and able to be at their best in the classroom.

The Head Teacher Leadership Academies are a proven success, and I know that participation will ensure heads and deputy heads will get the time and support to reflect on their values and strengthen leadership, enabling them to create lasting change in their schools and communities.

This investment is part of the Scottish Government’s wider support for the teaching profession, which also includes the recently launched ‘Teaching Makes People’ recruitment campaign.