Being ‘The Principal’: One Beginning Principal’s Practices, Challenges and Feelings

Lee-Piggott, Rinnelle (2010) Being ‘The Principal’: One Beginning Principal’s Practices, Challenges and Feelings. [Dissertation (University of Nottingham only)] (Unpublished)

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Abstract

Much of the literature on beginning principals originates from developed countries such as the UK and USA and generally paints a dismal picture of the incumbent who is overwhelmed by a number of challenges, which he or she is inappropriately prepared to manage. This systematic and empirically-based case study, however, produces a rich description of the experiences of one beginning principal of Trinidad and Tobago, a developing country.

Findings from this study represent some departure from the existing literature and suggest that while there are a number of challenges faced by the subject, they are primarily concerned with educational leadership and reculturing the school and not so much on the technical aspects of the principalship. In fact, the subject in this study has a cogent conceptualization of her role. Other findings suggest that many of her practices in leading school change resemble those of more experienced, successful principals. Unique to this study is a focus on the emotional aspect of being a new principal. Consequently, the subject‟s coping mechanisms and strategies for advice seeking are noted.

Final analyses and discussion highlight implications for principal preparation in Trinidad and Tobago and identify a number of areas for future research.

Item Type: Dissertation (University of Nottingham only)
Depositing User: EP, Services
Date Deposited: 26 Oct 2012 12:14
Last Modified: 02 Jan 2018 08:05
URI: https://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/id/eprint/25513

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