ABSTRACT
Teachers are important figures, even when the presenting feature of such young people's behaviour manifests as hostility or aggression. Similarly headteachers and pastoral leaders become repositories for the troubles and anxieties of their parents or carers. Academically able young people who shy away from challenge are often a mystery to their teachers. They are expected to do well but teachers often underestimate the emotional impact of change—of teacher or timetable for instance—or peer pressure. Some school leaders embrace these changes and new freedoms as opportunities to improve what they offer young people and to make their own decisions closer to the action of frontline provision. The concept of mental toughness as an essential professional attribute has resonated the most with middle leaders new to their posts who often struggle with taking up authority in what is generally a very collegial profession.
