Do you want to be a Principal?
When asked if people want to be a principal, the answer is often either a flat out ‘no’ or ‘not sure’ and rarely does the question receive a resoundingly positive response. Curiously, a fourth cohort exists, believing they should already be a principal (often stating they could do a better job than their current principal). The reality is that principal preparation is a body of knowledge and work that needs to be explored so that one can make an informed decision either way. Often perceptions of principal work can be focussed on the conferences, the lunches, the opportunities, the faithful and devoted EA at one’s beck and call etc, etc. The reality is often quite different. Having been a Vice Principal at 3 different schools before taking on a principalship, I reflect that the best preparation for me, as an independent school principal, was serving on a number of not-for-profit boards. This gave me a firm understanding of governance and financial management. Others will have very different experiences. What is indisputable, is that we need to have many more people ready to consider applying for this wonderful but challenging role. As a member of AHISA (Association of Heads of Independent Schools) I hear that the turnover of independent principals currently is approximately 30% per year and the average tenure is 6 years. Data from other sectors on principal retention and tenure is similar (Heffernan, A., & Pierpoint, A.,2022). These perceptions are also reflected in general trends in the teaching profession, where 58% of teaching staff surveyed across Australia had considered leaving teaching in the past 2 years (McCrindle Research, 2024). This same report notes that the top 2 attractors for educators in a role are Making a positive impact: 42% and Work/life balance: 39%. While being a principal does not necessarily support work/ life balance, it is, without a doubt, an incredibly powerful way to make a difference to thousands of people – both young and old.
Crucial in this space is encouraging people to remain and thrive in schools, and to thirst for leadership through a humble, informed and servant leadership lens.
To this end, the ACEL is offering a free webinar entitled Do you want to be a Principal? Principals from the Catholic, Government and Independent sector will reflect on their journey and learnings. The conversation will be complemented by the views of recruiters who deal with the selection and appointment of principals across the country. For those interested in any of the sectors, as well as some inside information regarding how to shape your application, this session is essential.
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This engaging session will address crucial topics such as:
• The current leadership climate in education, and the reluctance to pursue principalship roles.
• Developing the essential leadership qualities and skills needed to be a principal.
• Key differences in the recruitment process within the Government, Independent and Catholic sectors
• Exploration of various principalship models and their potential to fill future leadership gaps.
• Recommended professional development and training for aspiring principals.
Whether you’re an aspiring leader or a current educator looking to broaden your impact, this webinar will provide you with valuable insights and practical advice to guide your path to principalship. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from experts and gain the tools you need to advance your career in educational leadership.
Heffernan, A., & Pierpoint, A. (2022). Attracting and Retaining Australia’s Principals. Australian Secondary Principals' Association.
McCrindle Research, Building Thriving School Communities Report https://mccrindle.com.au/resource/report/building-thriving-school-communities/
OR https://www.researchgate.net/publication/381472272_Building_thriving_school_communities/link/666fe3ce85a4ee7261cadae9/download?_tp=eyJjb250ZXh0Ijp7ImZpcnN0UGFnZSI6InB1YmxpY2F0aW9uIiwicGFnZSI6InB1YmxpY2F0aW9uIn19
Annette Rome
ACEL VIC Branch President