Knowing when to slow the pace as a leader with Alex Hems, Head, The Aldenham Foundation (Ep. 183)

In this episode of The Independent School Podcast Juliet Corbett is joined by Alex Hems, Executive Head of The Aldenham Foundation since 2022.

In this thoughtful and honest conversation, they reflect on what it takes to lead well when the pace is intense and the stakes are high, and why creating space to think - both individually and collectively - can be one of a leader’s most powerful tools.

Together they explore:

• What ‘slow down to speed up’ really means in senior leadership

• How leaders make good decisions when there’s no clear right answer

• The role of intuition, judgement and self-awareness under pressure

• Why slowing the pace can strengthen teams and improve buy-in

• How leaders balance urgency with long-term stewardship

  
  

This episode is for you if you’re a senior leader navigating complexity, feeling the pressure to move fast, and wondering how to create better decisions, stronger teams, and clearer direction without burning yourself out or rushing to the wrong answer.

Episode Links

'Slow Productivity' by Cal Newport

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