Appointing a Principal

Of all the processes undertaken by a board of trustees none is more critical nor has more potential for success than the process of appointing the principal of the school. It would be irresponsible to underrate the importance of this one single appointment. The reputation of the school rests on the shoulders of the professional leader and day-to-day manager embodied in the role of the principal.

Furthermore, it is the principal who takes the policy and direction of the community, as decided through the elected leadership of the board in its governance role, and transposes it into the activities and outcomes required by that community.

The principal serves as both a leader and a role model for the values and aspirations of the community and it is vital that there is a coherent match between the principal and the community that she/he is to serve.

In addition to developing the school so that it reflects the character and requirements of its community the principal also implements the regulatory requirements and prescriptions set down by the Secretary for Education. By this we mean the National Education Guidelines, which encompass the National Administration Guidelines, the National Curriculum Statements, and National Administration Guidelines.

For a useful insight into the role of the principal and their relationship with the board download a copy of a study undertaken by Katharine Lindberg in 2006. 
 

Appointment Guidelines

This publication has been developed as a practical guide with specific information and examples for boards of trustees as the employer of the principal.

NZSTA Principal Appointment Guidlines

We also developed with NZEI and the Ministry in 2004 some Good Practice Processes.

Good Practice Processes

Good Practice Approach in appointing Primary School Principals

Report to the Minister of Education by the Working party on Primary Principals Appointment