Enhancing the agency of senior school leaders through professional learning: a qualitative study of Into Headship, the national headteacher preparation programme in Scotland

0Citations
Citations of this article
2Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

This article is free to access.

Abstract

This article presents the original and significant findings of a research project which used an ecological model of agency to explore the lived experiences of aspiring headteachers (school principals), undertaking masters level professional learning through the Into Headship programme in Scotland. Headteacher recruitment and retention problems exist internationally therefore understanding factors which can enhance or impinge on the agency of potential school leaders can help ensure that educational systems foster leadership aspirations in teachers and prepare and support them adequately in senior leadership roles. A qualitative approach was adopted which involved one national cohort of Into Headship participants from three different Scottish universities who undertook their studies during the COVID-19 crisis. The findings highlight a number of key themes in terms of developing professional identity and the effect of professional learning on the agency of school leaders in relation to their ability to lead school improvements. It is concluded that Into Headship impacted positively on the agency of participants in a range of ways and that these findings will be useful to those involved in school leadership preparation and educational system level strategic planning.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Harvie, J., Robertson, Z., & Brack, K. (2024). Enhancing the agency of senior school leaders through professional learning: a qualitative study of Into Headship, the national headteacher preparation programme in Scotland. Professional Development in Education. https://doi.org/10.1080/19415257.2024.2366336

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free