Taking on Racism in Schools: A Framework for Cultivating an Inclusive Educational Environment
The fight against racism in schools is not a battle waged in isolation but a collective journey towards understanding, acceptance, and unity.
Why Retention is Crucial for Nurturing School Leadership
When discussing recruiting school leaders, we often focus on the importance of finding the right candidates with the skills, experience, and vision to lead our educational institutions. But here’s a truth – recruiting is just one part of the equation. Retaining talented school leaders is every bit as critical. High turnover rates among school […]
Navigating Staff Resignations During the Holiday Season: A Guide for School Leaders
The holidays spanning December and January is often a time of relaxation and family gatherings. However, for school leaders, it can be a challenging phase, especially if a staff member resigns unexpectedly. Here are five strategies to effectively manage such situations: Concluding Actionable Tactic In situations like these, seeking expert advice can be a game-changer. […]
Appointing New Principals and the Importance of Continuity in Leadership
As educational leaders, principals have the opportunity to shape the very soul of the school. The educational landscape in Australia is in a constant state of flux. Whether driven by technological advancements, changing curriculums, or the evolving needs of students, schools must continually adapt. One significant change that can have a profound impact on a […]
Is the Principal Accountable for the Viability and Sustainability of Your School?
With over twenty years as a principal in four independent schools, Dr Paul Teys says, Yes! The school board holds the principal accountable for the viability and sustainability of a school. They are responsible for making decisions related to curriculum, teaching and learning, budgeting, asset and resource management, staff recruitment and management, and overall school […]
Have Schools and Teachers Lost Control in the Classroom?
Policymakers, administrators, and teachers should work together to develop comprehensive strategies and initiatives that promote positive behaviour. While there has been abundant media and social media discussion about the topic of late, it would be inaccurate to make a blanket statement that schools have lost control of student behaviour in classrooms and that there is […]
You Will be Judged by Your School’s Culture
Culture is like the wind. It is invisible, yet its effect can be seen and felt. What is culture? When I mention culture, I am referring to organisational culture. Organisational culture (Schein, 2004) is the way things are done in a school: a shared sense of purpose and vision; social behaviours and the way people […]
Managing Staff Conflict
If there is conflict between staff members it will be left to the principal to come to a solution, first of all slow it down, and meet with the combatants face to face. As I reflect on over twenty years as a principal in four schools, staff matters consumed a significant amount of time and […]
Character
An essential element of the principal’s character is the will to take the lead. I had what I thought were pretty good optics around what was required to be a principal in an independent school in Australia when I first considered the role. I had conceptions about the traits and qualities I would need. As […]
Communicate, Communicate, Communicate
The Principal is the storyteller in chief As a principal, you often learn lessons the hard way, and practice is the best teacher. I learned quickly that I had to work tirelessly on effective communication and community relations. When you communicate effectively, you inspire optimism and hope in others. Part of your role is to […]
