School leadership to retirement: how to prepare mentally and take care of yourself

In this guide, we explore a range of advice designed to help you prepare for retirement and stay mentally well when it arrives.

Guides

Retirement is a significant milestone in the life of any school leader, but the path to it will look different for everyone. For some, retirement will be a carefully planned transition, shaped by years of preparation and planning. For others, it may come unexpectedly, due to health issues, personal circumstances, or organisational changes, leading to an early or sudden exit. Or some leaders may choose a phased retirement, gradually stepping back from full-time responsibilities while still contributing to their school community in a reduced capacity.

Even if your journey to retirement mirrors that of a colleague, it’s important to recognise that your emotional and psychological experience of the transition can vary greatly. While one leader may look forward to the freedom and opportunity for new adventures, or simply space to relax, another may feel a sense of loss or concern for the uncertainty of what is ahead.

In this guide, we will explore a range of advice designed to help you prepare for retirement and stay mentally well when it arrives. Whether you’re planning your departure in advance or adjusting to an unexpected change, we’ll offer practical tips and advice on how to take care of your emotional wellbeing during this significant life change and beyond.