Educational change in times of crisis: the case for system leadership

Citation

Alan G, Harris A, Jones M, King F & Madrid Miranda R (2026) Educational change in times of crisis: the case for system leadership. Journal of Educational Change. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10833-026-09567-2

Abstract
Contemporary educational change is unfolding amid volatility, uncertainty, and recurring global disruption. Against this backdrop, it is proposed that system leadership is a necessary response to a changing educational landscape in which crisis is endemic. Drawing on established theoretical perspectives, system leadership is conceptualised as a collective, relational practice that mobilises knowledge, trust, professional capacity, and coordinated action across boundaries. This article suggests that the future of educational change will depend less on fragmented school improvement and more on collective leadership and adaptive responsiveness to the challenges and crises that education systems face.

Journal
Journal of Educational Change