Now You Are A Principal
Navigating the Leadership Labyrinth
Dr Paul Teys
Now You Are a Principal by Dr Paul Teys is a grounded, insightful guidebook for educators stepping into school leadership. Teys, with more than 40 years in education and 24 as a principal across three states, brings lived wisdom to every page. This book speaks directly to those in the role or those aspiring to it, offering practical advice shaped by personal experience and deep reflection.
Teys explores the many layers of principalship with honesty and clarity. He emphasises the critical importance of building a wellbeing-focused school culture, fostering authentic staff relationships, and working with school councils in a way that builds trust rather than tension. Financial management, community expectations, and the unavoidable political undercurrents of school leadership are treated not as abstract concepts but as challenges that require integrity, courage and clear thinking.
The chapters are structured for easy reading, with each section prompting meaningful reflection. Teys’ voice is conversational yet purposeful, making it feel like a thoughtful mentor is walking beside you. His focus on leading with heart and maintaining professional humility is particularly resonant in an era where school leaders are stretched thin.
Rather than romanticising leadership, Teys highlights the emotional highs and lows – from dealing with personal grief while maintaining professional presence, to moments of joy and connection that remind us why we lead in the first place.
For educational leaders, teachers considering leadership, or time-poor professionals who want depth without density, this book strikes the right balance. It celebrates the humanity of the role, and offers grounded, realistic encouragement.
Now You Are a Principal is not about having all the answers – it is about being willing to ask better questions, and leading in a way that is values-driven, strategic, and deeply human.
