The role of school managers in staff development in the Lejweleputswa district

Abstract

The aim of the study was to investigate the role of school managers in staff development. The problem perceived by the researcher was that this role seemed to be unclear and undefined. To achieve this aim, aspects of staff development such as motivation, leadership style, mentorship, communication and conflict resolution were explored. The objective was, among others, to assist ways that can assist school managers to manage staff development effectively. The research involved methodological triangulation in the sense that both the questionnaire and observation were utilised in collecting and processing quantitative and qualitative data respectively. The findings, inter alia, revealed the following outcomes: • School managers agree that having a mentor helps educators to perform better in their schools. • School managers do provide sufficient development training to all educators. School managers do, in fact, promote communication and conflict resolution amongst staff members. • Educators were provided with ample opportunities for development through meetings and workshops. The following recommendations were made within the context of the research outcomes: • Training of school managers. Prize-giving events for meritorious educators. • Regular class visits and staff meetings. The importance of a balanced school component is the primary responsibility of school managers. Staff development should therefore be a crucial and most important aspect within an education milieu, if school managers want to transform their schools into quality schools.