Blogs & Articles

Got your sticker? Keep calm and contact the SBL Support Hub - February 2026

Earlier in this week, I had the pleasure of attending ISBL’s Network Leader Conference in Coventry, as well as speaking on a couple of panels, I was there representing SBL Support Hub along with Neil Limbrick and Emma Gray. In the room of exhibitors our stand looks very empty! We have some banners with QR codes linking to our website, we have us standing there engaging in conversation and we have stickers! 

These stickers have a simple message – “Keep Calm and contact the SBL Support Hub”, but people’s reaction to them is anything but calm. Which got Val Limbrick (Mrs Neil!) and I thinking….why does a sticker bring people a little bit of joy? Let’s peel it back (gently, so it doesn’t tear) and find out!

Adults are basically big emotional Russian Babushka dolls, each with a small child version of us tucked away inside. These small child-like versions are often released when socialising with childhood friends or even our siblings, especially if triggered by some element on unfairness that your older brother still harps on about.  (Get over it Adam!)

So as a child when did we get stickers? Well back in the day, we used to get given a lolly pop by the dental assistant after visiting the dentist. I’m pretty sure they weren’t lolly pops that cleaned your teeth, they were the type that probably generated future work for the dentist in terms of cavities requiring fillings or worse.  So, it’s not surprising that they switched the lolly pop for a sticker probably mid-1980s and yet I don’t think those occurrences were frequent enough or enjoyable enough to recreate joy as adults for being given a sticker! 

Another example of medical induced sticker allocation was soon after I turned 30, I went with a group of friends to spa, for a day of treatments and relaxation. It was a lovely day, and we still share memories from the silly things we got up. However, my over riding memory from this day was when I returned from the spa, all chilled out and probably slightly tipsy from the bubbles (both types). I walked into the front room to see my youngest, aged 15 months, sitting on the sofa, looking a bit sorry for himself and wearing a sticker “I was a good boy for my x-ray”. All sense of spa chill left me and was replaced with a different sort of chill and parental guilt. 

We got stickers at primary school of course; I guess for completing work or good behaviour (I would have got loads for that!). I remember getting a Green Cross Code sticker, along with my older brother, when we took part in an assembly about walking to school sensibly with none other than the Green Cross Code Man (David Prowse - the chap who played Darth Vader to those who know!). Maybe if the 7-year-old version of me had known that fact then I would have kept that sticker. No doubt it ended up on my childhood bedroom door along with a lot of other stickers, and my poor Dad probably had to scrape them off when he redecorated the room. Possibly better housed there, then inadvertently left on a school jumper which ended up in the washing machine, and shifts from being fixed to school jumper to just over the washing machine water outlet hole and causing the washing machine to stop working. Again, sorry Dad!

Sports Day in primary school we all got stickers – for winning, for competing, for turning up in our plimsols or daps (to allow for the potential geographical spread of readers). So, is that why stickers make us feel like champions?

By the time we were at secondary school, behaviour reinforcement stickers were a definite no-go area, having switched between the summer you leave primary school and the autumn you start at secondary school to being seriously uncool. Stickers though that contain a political message, rude word, or deeply held obsession with a particular pop star or boy band were still all the rage and could be found all over our pencil case tins and ring binders.

Maybe there is a hint of nostalgia then with stickers?

Post teenager, we forget about being cool, and stickers return to being social and non-threatening little badges of honour. You don’t need to perform at a superhuman level to earn one. And you never have to give a speech.

A sticker says:

“You’re doing great, and we’re all just having a nice time here.”

They create a tiny moment of connection. When someone gives you a sticker, they must physically hand it to you. It requires eye contact, a smile, maybe even a short conversation. These micro-moments of social bonding are powerful. Humans are wired for connection, and a sticker exchange is basically a miniature ceremony of appreciation or connection. 

No awkward hugs. No need to write a thank-you card. Just adhesive affirmation.

Sometimes, just as a teenager, it’s not appropriate to wear the sticker, so we add it to our notebook, laptop or water bottle. Every time you see it, you get a little reminder of its original purpose. And the purpose of our SBL Support Hub stickers is to remind you that you’re not alone, there are others who know and understand the role, the challenges, the demands and are there to support you. Please do make contact through #SBLSupportHub - Home regardless of whether you've been given a sticker or not - we will connect with you and we will champion you.

Blogs & Articles

Buzzing! EdExec LIVE 2026 and Zenergi Energy & Carbon Management training - February 2026

I was speaking at Risky Business in Birmingham in January about sustainability risk in the education sector. The experience was truly eye-opening and left a lasting impression on me – the number of hands that went up when I asked who has climate change risk already on their Risk Register.  I’m still buzzing knowing that there are schools and Trusts out there that are taking the climate change risks on the delivery of education seriously. This development is incredibly encouraging, as it demonstrates a tangible shift in awareness and action across the sector. I left the event feeling genuinely energised and optimistic, buoyed by the knowledge that so many schools and Trusts are now proactively addressing climate change as a critical risk to their core mission—the delivery of education. 

Since last year, I have had the opportunity to collaborate closely with Zenergi in delivering Energy & Carbon Management training specifically tailored for school leaders. I’ve met many passionate individuals who are dedicated to sustainability yet also realistic about the challenges they face. Many school leaders have expressed concerns about the increasing weight of sustainability responsibilities, which often come on top of their already demanding day-to-day roles. These conversations have highlighted a real need for practical, actionable support, and that’s precisely what our training aims to provide.

Harry Eaves, Zenergi’s Head of Consultancy and I have covered quite a lot of the UK already delivering this valuable CPD and enjoying Danish pastries far too early in the morning for my waist band’s liking. On a more serious note, it’s been immensely rewarding to witness first-hand the enthusiasm and commitment from education leaders nationwide to the sustainability challenges schools are facing. Some feedback from delegates included:

“It was a fabulous use of my time as I have gained a lot of useful information. Thank you all”

“Thoroughly enjoyed the course. It was informative and detailed and was appropriately timed”

The Zenergi Energy & Carbon Management training has proven to deliver real-world benefits. The guidance, resources, and innovative ideas shared during these sessions have already helped a number of schools and Trusts to make substantive improvements. These range from practical steps to reduce energy consumption and operational costs, to the development of internal expertise and confidence in managing energy use effectively. Feedback from previous delegates included:

“It was packed with a lot of useful information.”

“I think it was extremely informative.”

“The trainers were incredibly knowledgeable but communicated what could be very technical information in a simple and straightforward way.”

We’ve seen delegates adopt new behaviours, implement policies that drive efficiency, and foster a culture of sustainability that extends beyond the school gates and into their communities.

All this means, I am so pleased to share that, building on this momentum, EdExec and Zenergi have joined forces to ensure that the Energy and Carbon Management Training will be available at 11 out of the 13 EdExec LIVE 2026 events. This partnership means that school business leaders, site managers, and senior leadership teams from all corners of the country will have the chance to benefit from our practical, hands-on sessions, regardless of where they’re based. The EdExec LIVE conferences occur in:

  • Manchester* – 25 February
  • East Midlands (In partnership with L.E.A.D. Academy)  – 4 March
  • Stoke, Stafford & Cheshire – 23 April
  • West Midlands – 6 May
  • Newcastle & Durham – 20 May
  • London – 4 June
  • Liverpool & the Wirral* – 10 June
  • Kent & Sussex – 23 June
  • Cumbria & the Pennines – 15 October
  • Gloucester, Bristol & the Southwest – 22 October
  • Herts & Essex – 4 November
  • Yorkshire, Leeds & The Humber – 18 November
  • London – 3 December 

*Energy & Carbon Management training not happening in Manchester EdExec LIVE or Liverpool & the Wirral in 2026.

Take a look at how to book your place at EdExec LIVE https://www.edexeclive.co.uk/eventlocations

This is a massive commitment by EdExec LIVE and Zenergi to provide the training across 3 seminars in the morning, reflecting EdExec LIVE’s desire to provide actionable and inspiring workshops. Don’t worry you still get a tea break, Harry and I need to top up those Danish pastry levels!, and the opportunity to network and meet with education sector suppliers, plus have the lunch and afternoon seminar slot to enjoy. So even if you’ve already attended the Zenergi training in 2025, it would be lovely to catch up with you again at lunchtime or maybe I’ll see you at one of the other seminars I’m delivering on behalf of EdExec LIVE in the afternoon.

School Business Leaders have always enjoyed EdExec LIVE events and 2026 looks set for another great year of content for SBLs to engage with sector experts and their wider network. It’s an exciting time to be involved, and I look forward to seeing many familiar and new faces as we continue this important journey together.

Blogs & Articles

People, Purpose & Parkland: Looking ahead to "Invest in You" at Hylands House - December 2025

Years ago, my childhood best friend moved from next door to 200 miles away to Chelmsford, leaving me heartbroken. And at the time it was a big deal. Now, after more than 40 years, the opportunity has finally arrived for me to see Chelmsford with my own eyes and uncover what made it so compelling that my friend’s family felt the need to locate, literally from the Southwest to the Southeast. Next summer, on Wednesday, June 10th, Zenergi will host its 5th “Invest in You” Conference at Hylands House. This stately venue, steeped in history and set within parkland, seems the perfect place to gather school business leaders for a day of inspiration and learning, and for the first time, I’ll be attending. 

The agenda is fantastic, featuring inspiring speakers who have a lot to offer school business professionals—I can't wait! Also, its an opportunity for me to meet with school business leaders in the Southeast, maybe one of them works in the school my best friend moved to?!

Laura Williams

I love her podcasts, even appeared on a few and I’m always pleased to see she’s posted a new blog or article on LinkedIn. Laura’s ability to tackle the complex issues facing school business leaders with warmth, honesty and a touch of humour has always resonated with me. Her work is accessible, thought-provoking and never fails to offer practical advice for navigating the ever-changing educational landscape. Because we live far apart, we don’t meet as often as I’d like – though perhaps that’s just how Laura likes it! Nonetheless, our occasional conversations are always enlightening, and I genuinely look forward to the moments when our paths do cross. Seeing her deliver the keynote – “Power, Purpose and the People who hold it all together” will be a real treat. I expect some Formula 1 references as she discusses invisible leadership, influence and impact. Maybe references to pit-stop teamwork, strategic thinking and the crucial role played by those who work behind the scenes. Laura’s keynote will undoubtedly set the tone for the conference, challenging delegates to reflect on their own journeys and the vital importance of people who support, guide and hold their organisations together. 

Tracey Field 

I first met Tracey this year, at one Zenergi’s early Energy and Carbon Management Training sessions, right when she began her exciting new Estates Consultancy. Tracey’s dedication to improving school estates and ensuring that educational settings are both sustainable and effective has been truly inspiring. She has had an amazing 2025, and is a published author, be sure to check out her book “Leading & Managing an Education Estate”, which is rapidly becoming a must-read for those in the field. Tracey is going to be speaking about “the skills that brought you here – and where they can take you next”, a topic which perfectly reflects the spirit of “Invest in You”.  Her session promises to help delegates reflect on their own professional journeys, identify the transferable skills they’ve developed, and consider the new opportunities available as the sector evolves. I hope we finally get to catch up properly at this conference, since at previous events we’ve both spoken at the same time and missed each other amidst post-session chats and grabbing lunch before it disappeared.

I’ve heard lunch at Hylands House is excellent and as the conference is during the summer, if the weather cooperates, eating outside should be lovely – so @Tracey let’s have lunch on the lawns! 

Energy and Carbon Management training for Sustainability Leads

Several Zenergi colleagues including Chris Jermy, Nick Drake and Harry Eaves will also present. I’ve enjoyed presenting with them at conferences and training events throughout 2025. Nick, whom I first met in person at the ISBL’s Sustainability Symposium in September brought a depth of knowledge and perspective from outside the education sector, that felt so relevant to the education sector. He is going to be speaking about the DfE’s three climate risks to the delivery of education – flooding, water scarcity and overheating, you can read more in the DfE’s paper here - Impact of UK climate change risk on the delivery of education - GOV.UK. 

Throughout 2025, Harry and I have been delivering Energy and Carbon Management training for Sustainability Leads at various locations around the country. It has been an incredibly rewarding process supporting both experienced and new sustainability leads, helping them focus their efforts within their varied school settings, complete the Greener Schools Index and deepen their understanding – thanks especially to Harry’s expertise. We’ve seen participants make meaningful changes in their schools, from implementing energy-saving initiatives to developing robust climate action plans.

We’ll be running this training again in the afternoon at Hylands House. Don’t worry if you’re not a Sustainability Lead, maybe you line manage one or are supporting one with your school’s climate action plan, this training will still be of interest and will add value to your role and your school. The session is designed to be interactive and practical, giving attendees the tools they need to drive real change.

I'm also excited to hear Laura Drury from Laughology speak. I’ve attended Laughology sessions before—they’re interactive and fun, with prizes for participation, not just correct answers, so don’t hesitate to join in! Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the sector, Laura’s workshop promises to leave you energised and equipped with strategies to support wellbeing and communication in your school.

“Invest in You” was created after Covid to help school business leaders reconnect and strengthen their resilience and wellbeing buckets. The pandemic left many feeling isolated and stretched, highlighting the need for community, support and ongoing professional development. The “Invest in You” theme is still so relevant today and with plenty of networking opportunities (hopefully outside on the lawn!) and engaging interactive sessions, it should help us to learn from one another and recharge our batteries to keep going until the end of Term 6.

As I look ahead to 2026, I am filled with a sense of anticipation and gratitude for the amazing network of school business leaders around me, and the fact I know I’m going to be meeting up with at least two of them in June is a bonus!

Blogs & Articles

Preparing for your Appraisal - September 2025

With the summer holidays (Term 7) still strongly in mind here’s a handy checklist for your preparations for your next trip to “appraisal-land”. 

Getting ready for your appraisal is like preparing for travel: it’s about verifying achievements, charting your next destinations, and ensuring you have all the essential documentation in place to prove your previous journey. Follow these steps to assemble evidence, clarify ambitions, and enter the room with confidence.

1. Renew your “passport”

Just like your passport confirms your identity and nationality, your job description defines your professional identity and role. 

Review your job description, like a passport goes out of date, so can your job description.  Make sure it’s ready for your next departure to “appraisal-land” and reflects the evolving context of your school and that relevant tasks are listed. Does it capture the essence of your function? Have some of the personal details changed – role title, reporting lines, scope of role? If you’ve taken on the role of Sustainability Lead, Data Protection Officer or Well-being champion is this referenced?

2. Check all essential documents are in place for “appraisal-land”

  • RAG (red-amber-green) yourself against the ISBL Professional standards ISBL Professional Standards — ISBL and the addendum Sustainability professional standards ISBL Professional Standards — ISBL.
  • Gather together all your CPD certificates and suitable metrics to compile evidence to support and link back to your appraisal targets and strategic goals from the last academic year.
  • Rag yourself on each target objective, write 2–3 bullet points on what went well and what you would tweak.

3. Start planning your next big adventure to “appraisal-land”

  • Draft 3–5 forward-looking goals with SMART targets to discuss at your appraisal:
    • Begin by pinpointing specific outcomes—whether that’s reducing energy use or launching a wellbeing initiative.
    • Ensure each goal is measurable  with clear metrics like percentage improvements or project milestones.
    • Align your aspirations with organisational priorities to keep them achievable and relevant, reflecting both your development areas and the school’s strategic vision.  
    • Finally, set a realistic timeline for deadlines.
  • Identify CPD opportunities you feel would inform and challenge your knowledge, skills and expertise. This might include:

4. Make sure you know your luggage allowance

  • Ask for clarity on evolving role expectations and be mindful of your luggage allowance and don’t over commit, ensuring you have a healthy working day in order to be able to carry your luggage allowance consistently and confidently.

Finally, make sure you have enough time to get through security, passport control and the boarding gate. Don’t leave your appraisal preparations to the last minute. Prioritise your preparations to maximise their impact.

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