CONTROVERSIAL former Chief Inspector of Schools Chris Woodhead told teachers and education experts in Bolton that they should be prepared to be unpopular if they want to be a good leader.

Mr Woodhead spoke about the importance of leadership at the annual North-west Educational Exhibition and Conference, held at the Reebok Stadium.

The event attracts thousands of teachers, consultants, managers and advisers who go to enjoy 40 seminars and almost 100 displays, demonstrations and presentations of the latest resources and equipment.

Mr Woodhead said as a leader it is impossible to be liked by everyone and the role will inevitably mean angering some people. He recommended challenging the norm, accepting that being in charge is lonely, never neglecting details and keeping things simple.

He criticised hierarchy in the workplace and said sitting in ivory towers should be avoided. He promoted an "all hands on deck" policy and said: "Don't be bamboozled by experts and elites. It can produce haemophiliacs who bleed to death once they are nicked by the real world."

The speech was well received by the audience who packed into the conference, now in its fourth year.

Other guest speakers included author and freelance lecturer and adviser Gervaise Phinn, who had his audience in tears of laughter as he brought the English language magically to life.

Another speaker, Professor Nigel Paine, said: "Essentially young people are enthusiastic about the future. They are excited by some of the things they use, like computer games and mobile phones.

"The problem is they don't relate that to what they learn in the classroom. We have to bring the real world into the classroom."

An 80-strong choir from St Joseph's RC School and Sports College in Bolton kicked off the two-day event with a medley of songs, followed by an official welcoming ceremony by the Mayor, Cllr Kevan Helsby.

Organiser Barbara Brookes, director of Educational Exhibits, said: "The event is being organised at the request of educationalists throughout the North-west. Each year we listen to feedback from visitors and exhibitors so that we can improve and expand the opportunities we offer.

"We are confident that the North-west Education and Conference is regarded as one of the most important events in the region's educational calendar."