New AITSL Guidelines For Principals

Some are born great, some have greatness thrust upon them, some wing it.

Often there isn’t much in the way of preparing someone for a leadership role, it just kind of happens. It’s obviously not ideal but moves are being made to help principals to lead and AITSL’s Leading for impact: Australian guidelines for school leadership development is step in the right direction.

“It’s essential that principals are well prepared for the role; they look after the well-being, progress and achievement of all students in Australian schools,” AITSL CEO Lisa Rodgers states. “We know that great teaching has the biggest impact on the learning lives of students, after that it’s the school principal and their leadership teams.”

These guidelines will make it easier for systems and sectors, principals, and other education leaders to find and develop future leaders, and ensure pathways to leadership are clear and inclusive.

AITSL’s evidence-informed recommendations and advice describe what teachers need to develop their leadership skills, and the specific preparation of those who aspire to become a principal. They also guide the professional growth of current principals.

Dennis Yarrington, President of the Australian Primary Principals Association, welcomes the guidelines, saying “The development of effective school leadership is critical to Australia’s educational success. The guidelines will provide greater support for the development of aspiring leaders, which will ensure our future school leaders are well prepared.”

Educators in Australia have world leading professional standards – the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers and Australian Professional Standard for Principals. The guidelines provide pathways to leadership through the application of these standards.

“It’s very important to note that the guidelines also recognise the need for ongoing support of current principals and provide a road map for professional growth of these leaders,” Mr Yarrington said.

“To grow a diverse and strong pool of potential future leaders, teachers need the right opportunities and support so they can be well prepared to lead teaching and learning,” Ms Rodgers said.

Leading for impact: Australian guidelines for school leadership development is available on AITSL’s website.