PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF NEWLY-APPOINTED PRINCIPALS

Within the context of Gauteng education, principals are appointed primarily to ensure that teaching and learning takes place in order to maintain a functional school; secondly, principals are required to manage the schools holistically taking into consideration different facets of the school. The aim of this qualitative study is to determine if there exists a need for professional development of newly-appointed principals regarding required skills as indicated in the vacancy list. These include leadership, management and administration. This study found notable needs for induction and mentoring programmes. Skills that are currently lacking can be addressed through professional development for newly-appointed principals.