Towards leadership for school effectiveness: the impact of a preparation programme in education management on practice.

Abstract

Studies on school effectiveness indicate conclusively that leadership quality is a key factor in rising to the challenges faced by schools. There is also agreement that the effectiveness of school leadership depends on appropriate training. This study reports on a structured MEd in Education Management offered by University of South Africa (Unisa). It explores students’ perceptions of the impact of the programme on their own development and on their influence in their respective schools. Purposive and convenience sampling were used for the selection of respondents. The findings reveal three areas of potential impact for the MEd Education Management Programme: (1) impact on personal growth; (2) impact on colleagues; and (3) impact on institutions. The findings are different from but consistent with many similar studies, indicating both areas of strength and possibilities for improvement. The exploratory study of the impact of the preparation programme therefore provides an ongoing research scheme and prospects for steering further improvements in the curriculum of the programme.