St. Joseph's Catholic Primary Academy

Healds Road, Dewsbury, WF13 4HY01924 462053

Children  »  Leader in Me

Leader in Me (LiM) is an evidence-based, comprehensive school improvement model—developed in partnership with educators—that empowers students with the leadership and life-skills they need to thrive in the 21st century.


A model that creates new paradigms, effective practices, and real results: Leader in Me is based on a theory of change we refer to as the See-Do-Get cycle. When you change the way you See things, it influences what you Do, and the results you Get.

Many people equate leadership with a formal position of authority. In contrast, we believe anyone can be a leader by intentionally leading one’s own life (leading self) and working well with and encouraging the greatness in others—whether family, friends, neighbours, or colleagues (leading others).

 

What "Leader in Me" Schools DO

A unique approach to integrating highly effective practices throughout a school’s culture.

Instead of focusing on academic measures alone, Leader in Me embodies a holistic approach to education, redefining how schools measure success. This approach empowers educators with effective practices and tools to:

  • teach LEADERSHIP to every student,
  • create a CULTURE of student empowerment,
  • and align systems to drive results in SCHOOLS.


Habit 1: Be Proactive ®
 

I am a responsible person. I take initiative. I choose my actions, attitudes, and moods. I do not blame others for my wrong actions. I do the right thing without being asked, even when no one is looking.

Habit 2: Begin With the End in Mind ®

I plan ahead and set goals. I do things that have meaning and make a difference. I am an important part of my classroom and contribute to my school’s mission and vision. I look for ways to be a good citizen.

Habit 3: Put First Things First  ®

I spend my time on things that are most important. This means I say no to things I know I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule, and follow my plan. I am disciplined and organized.

Habit 4: Think Win-Win  ®

I balance courage for getting what I want with consideration for what others want. When conflicts arise, I look for a win-win solution.

Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood  ®

I listen to other people’s ideas and feelings. I try to see things from their viewpoint (paradigm). I listen to others without interrupting; I listen with my ears, my eyes, and my heart. I am confident in voicing my ideas.

Habit 6: Synergize ®

I value other people’s strengths and learn from them. I get along well with others; even people who are different than me. I work well in groups. I seek out other people’s ideas because I know that by teaming with others, we can create better solutions than what any one of us could alone. I look for Third Alternatives.​​​​​​​

Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw  ®

I eat right, exercise, and get enough sleep (body). I learn in lots of ways and lots of places, not just at school (brain). I spend time with family and friends (heart). I take time to find meaningful ways to help people (soul). I balance all four parts of myself.​​​​​​​