Be clear about where you are now. Audit your strengths and areas for development

Where do you want to be?

What needs to be done to eliminate the gap between your dream and the reality?

Prioritize ? Look for quick wins, consider those things which will have maximum long term impact. Build solid foundations, think of sustainability!

Set challenging but realistic targets. Aim high.

Communicate the vision, and keep doing so. Ensure that all stake holders understand and subscribe to the vision.

Who do you need to involve? How will you ensure they sign up to and stay committed to the vision?

Think about the language you use ? sound positive, if others think you are confident it can be achieved they will gain confidence too. Develop a "Can do" mentality within the staff. For every problem there is a solution, encourage others to see themselves as problem solvers not problem givers.

Create clear lines of communication which operate at every level and in all directions.

Break each priority down into small achievable steps, involve the team.

Who needs to do what ? by when? Set a timetable

Identify the roles and responsibilities for all staff; ensure that staff take ownership without creating a "jobs worth" approach.

Ensure that people are appropriately trained and that training is updated.

Build in the monitoring and review process from the start so you can evaluate performance and be prepared to adjust as necessary. (By creating a culture of development rather than blame huge potential will be released.)

Celebrate success; remember to thank people for their contribution. The best leaders give credit to the team.

Develop professional honesty within the staff, constructive feed back can be invaluable.

Educational Consultant, writer and life-coach Gina Gardiner loves working with others supporting them to make the best of their potential.

Gina was the Head Teacher (that is Principle) of a large, very successful Beacon school on the outskirts of London for over 20 years. The development of people has been central to the school's success and her passion.

Gina has a huge interest in education, she has led a wide range of training and facilitation activities with individuals, schools and other organisations, In her work as coach/mentor she supports people at individual or organisational level to develop confidence, leadership and people skills and effective delegation; empowering them to see themselves as part of the solution. If you would like to know more email: gina.gardiner@ntlworld.com

Gina Gardiner is also the author of "Live Well Eat Well With Celiac Disease" in this book she writes from first hand experience of being a celiac. For more information go to http://www.celiacliving.com