Plan for leadership support and development announced
15 May 2009
Education Minister Anne Tolley has announced a new plan designed to increase the number of education leaders and principals in New Zealand schools.
Developed in partnership with the sector, the Professional Leadership Plan 2009–2010 (PLP) sets out the Government’s aim to attract, develop, and support talented leaders over the next 2 years. The plan focuses on hard-to-staff schools and on upskilling existing Māori and Pasifika teachers.
'It focuses on developing both experienced school leaders and those who aspire to be principals,' says Mrs Tolley.
'The national programme for aspiring principals will build on the successful pilot. The training will give future principals the knowledge, skills, and support they need to lead effective teaching and learning for every student, and it will help teachers move more quickly into leadership positions in their schools.
'There will also be support for experienced principals in primary, secondary, and area schools. This will be up and running by July this year.'
Programmes under the Professional Leadership Plan focus on managing school operations effectively, working with parents, families, and whānau, and leading effective teaching and learning in schools.
'There is a focus on initiatives that will achieve measurable gains for all student groups, but in particular for Māori, Pasifika, and students with special education needs,' says Mrs Tolley.
The training will also assist the implementation of National Standards for reading, writing, and mathematics in years 1 to 8.
Visit this Educational Leaders page for more information on the PLP.
