Leaders With Substance: An Antidote to Leadership Genericism in Schools

This book explores the specific things that school leaders do, arguing for a notion of school leadership rooted in the realities of leaders' daily experiences and presents a case for how school leaders can develop their expertise and place domain-specific knowledge at the heart of school improvement efforts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 25 October 2019
Publisher: John Catt Educational Ltd

Leadership is a complex and multifaceted concept that is often plagued by abstract theories and models of expertise. This lack of a clear and concise definition of leadership has had a significant impact on school leadership, leading to a sense of disorientation and frustration among the workforce. In recent years, school leaders have been increasingly drawn towards generic approaches to school improvement, which have failed to address the unique challenges and complexities of the educational landscape.

The consequences of this approach are far-reaching. Teachers and staff members feel unsupported and unengaged, and the overall quality of education suffers. To address this issue, this book takes a fresh approach by drawing on the lessons of cognitive science. It explores the specific actions that school leaders take on a daily basis and argues for a notion of school leadership that is grounded in the realities of leaders' experiences.

The book presents a compelling case for how school leaders can develop their expertise and, in doing so, place domain-specific knowledge at the heart of school improvement efforts. It emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with teachers, staff members, and the community, as well as the need for leaders to be adaptable and responsive to the changing needs of their students and staff.

Furthermore, the book provides practical strategies and tools for school leaders to develop their expertise, including self-reflection, professional development, and collaboration with other leaders. It also highlights the importance of creating a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within schools, where leaders are encouraged to take risks and explore new approaches to teaching and learning.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the field of school leadership by providing a clear and comprehensive understanding of the role of leaders in improving education. It advocates for a notion of school leadership that is rooted in the realities of leaders' daily experiences and provides practical strategies and tools for leaders to develop their expertise. By doing so, we can create a more effective and responsive educational system that prepares students for the challenges of the 21st century.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 148 x 210 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912906574