Julia Harrington
Retired Headmistress with extensive experience leading independent schools. Julia brings decades of educational leadership experience and a deep understanding of how neuroscience informs effective practice.
Women in Leadership:
A Neuroscience Perspective
Live Online Discussion
Why does neuroscience matter for women in leadership?
Join Julia Harrington and Professor Patricia Riddell for an essential conversation exploring the science behind women's leadership experiences and why understanding these differences is crucial for creating truly effective leadership environments.
About the Discussion
In this live online session, we'll explore:
The Neuroscience of Leadership Differences How do men and women approach leadership differently at a neurological level? We'll examine the research that helps us understand these distinctions and why they matter.
Personal Experiences in Leadership Julia and Professor Riddell will share insights from their own leadership journeys in education, drawing on decades of experience navigating senior roles.
Tend and Befriend vs Fight or Flight A fascinating exploration of stress responses in leadership contexts. While the traditional 'fight or flight' model has dominated leadership thinking, neuroscience reveals that women often exhibit a 'tend and befriend' response. What does this mean for leadership effectiveness?
Why This Matters Understanding the neuroscience of gender differences in leadership isn't about reinforcing stereotypes—it's about creating environments where all leadership styles can thrive and recognising the unique strengths different approaches bring.
Your Speakers
Professor Patricia Riddell Neuroscientist and educator, Professor Riddell translates cutting-edge brain science into practical applications for schools and leadership development. Her research underpins Neuroscience for Education's programmes.
Who Should Attend?
- Women in educational leadership or aspiring to leadership roles
- School leaders and senior teams interested in inclusive leadership
- Education professionals exploring evidence-based approaches to leadership development
- Anyone curious about how neuroscience can inform more effective leadership practice
Event Details
Format: Live online discussion
Duration: 1 hour
Date: Friday 6th March
Time: 12pm-1pm
Cost: Free
Why This Conversation Is Essential
Leadership development has traditionally been built on models designed by and for men. Neuroscience is revealing that this one-size-fits-all approach misses crucial differences in how leadership can be exercised effectively.
By understanding the science, we can:
- Recognise and value different leadership approaches
- Create more inclusive leadership cultures
- Support women in leadership to lead authentically
- Challenge outdated assumptions about what 'good leadership' looks like
This isn't about women versus men. It's about expanding our understanding of leadership excellence.
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