‘Nothing is impossible. The word itself says, ‘I’m possible!’’- Theodore Roosevelt
Shumaila’s leadership journey began in her first year of teacher training, when she was appointed as a STEM Ambassador. “I organised numerous competitions and established a STEM club that expanded from just ten girls to nearly 120 within a year. Under my leadership, our pupils achieved notable success, including being the only girls’ school to win an award, granting them a visit to the Rolls Royce production line.”
By her third Year, she had taken on the role of KS4 lead where she led staff and pupils through the implementation of the new Science Trilogy curriculum.
Turning challenges into opportunities
Two years later, Shumaila became Head of Science at a United Learning school, a significant milestone in her sixth year of teaching.
This role was not without challenges; she inherited a department with no handover, low morale, and a history of underperformance. Determined to turn things around, she worked closely with senior leaders and United Learning advisers. “I focused on rebuilding the department from the ground up. This included changing the exam board, developing high quality resources, strengthening the KS3 curriculum, and implementing Entry Level Science for lower ability learners.”
Culture was also a key focus. "I wanted to build trust, consistency, and collaboration. Improving staff attendance and fostering community relationships were key." Within two years, the department had transformed. "We became one of the best performing and most respected departments in the school," she says, "Other departments started coming to us for help with tracking systems, CPD, and departmental culture."
Driving success
Shumaila didn’t stop there, she introduced new initiatives such as Science clubs, British Science Week celebrations, and external CPD sessions with AQA examiners to improve results. “These initiatives not only improved academic outcomes but also rekindled pride, enthusiasm, and professional confidence among staff and pupils alike.”
Her impact was recognised with a promotion to Strategic Lead, overseeing whole-school initiatives. Then came the pandemic. "I was promoted to Assistant Vice Principal during COVID. I led the school's transition to remote teaching, ensuring staff and pupils were trained and supported on Microsoft Teams."
Two years later, Shumaila became Vice Principal. “Three promotions in under four years” she reflects, “It’s a testament to my dedication, leadership, and determination to drive improvement and success.”
Alongside her career progression, Shumaila completed her NPQML, NPQH, a Level 7 Master's and is currently enrolled on the Aspiring Heads Programme.
Empowering future teachers
Mentoring trainee teachers at Manchester Academy, the regional training centre for United Teaching, has been one of the most rewarding parts of Shumaila’s journey.
“My experiences have shaped the way I mentor others. They allow me to empathise deeply with new teachers and to offer both compassion and high expectations, ensuring they receive the constructive support and encouragement I once needed.”
Final reflections
Shumaila shares a quote which has deeply resonated with her:
‘Nothing is impossible. The word itself says, ‘I’m possible!" — Theodore Roosevelt
"I came to this country with no English and progressed to the role of Vice Principal within a relatively short period of time. Every challenge I have faced has become an opportunity for growth, and every success has strengthened my commitment to empowering others to see what they can achieve. I hope my journey shows pupils, especially young girls, that with resilience, determination, and hard work, anything is possible.”