ASCL Associates Podcast
Life beyond school and college leadership
In our series of podcasts for Associate members or those considering retirement, ASCL Professional Leadership Communities Manager Sharon Ealing talks with ASCL Associates and Professional Associates, including former heads, business leaders, CEOs and other senior leaders, about life beyond school and college leadership.
Stepping away from headship - Part 1 | June 2026
In this two-part conversation, Sharon Ealing talks with ASCL Professional Associate Steve Playford about life after headship. In this first episode, Steve speaks candidly about leaving headship, the emotional impact of stepping away, and the first steps he took to find his footing again.
Stepping away from headship - Part 2 | June 2026
In this two-part conversation, Sharon Ealing talks with ASCL Professional Associate Steve Playford about life after headship. In this second episode, he picks up the story, from gaining a coaching qualification and finding his USP outside of education, to practical tips on setting up a consultancy and the sense of purpose that has carried him through.