Succession planning and leadership development for school principals: comparing English and South African approaches

Abstract

Succession planning has become increasingly important because of the shortage of headship applicants in England, and in many other countries. Leadership development is a central part of any succession planning strategy. This article compares the findings from two longitudinal studies, in England and South Africa, where the governments are seeking to improve the supply and quality of school principals, and links them to the literature. The article concludes that ensuring a good supply of able principals requires a proactive approach and should not be left to chance.

Keywords:

• headship
• mentoring
• networking
• recruitment
• school leadership
• talent management

Notes

1. All new heads are required to hold the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).

2. New principals are expected to take this qualification within three years of appointment.

3. The Department of Education was replaced by two new departments in 2010. These are the Department of Basic Education and the Department of Higher Education and Training.