New year, new name

This is the last time that the SHA logo will appear on Leader. The name change will take effect on 1 January so by the time you receive the next edition, we will be the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL).

This is a hugely exciting and historic time for the association. The name 'SHA' has been around for nearly 30 years and in that time the association has built up a first-rate reputation.

We know it will take some time for people to become accustomed to the new name, but we have no doubt that ASCL will soon enjoy the same recognition as SHA, even if it doesn't trip off the tongue quite so easily.

The association will remain the same in essentials - our priority is still to provide reliable, practical advice and personal support and to focus exclusively on the needs of secondary school and college leaders.

But the new name means we will be able to speak more confidently on behalf of all our members on the leadership team. Our new name also reflects the direction that we believe school and college leadership should move if it is to keep up with the needs of students and employers in the next decades.

There are big challenges ahead but, this year more than ever, the new year is a time for SHA, and ASCL, to celebrate. Join us at the BETT Show at Olympia in London on 11-14 January - the association's first public exhibition as ASCL - for a glass of wine and hors d'oeuvres.

While there, you can also try out the additional feature on the redesigned ASCL website, which will be launched at the show. The association's stand is Z88. Please join us.

And watch out for the new name on the mailing pack that will arrive on your desk in the middle of January.