Abstract
In this paper, we present Western Australian research aimed to identify in the experiencesof novice primary principals challenges for which improved preparation is required. Our researchhighlights the impact of context on principals' work and the need for aspirants to develop deep insightsinto how the distinctiveness of contexts infiuences what principals can, and must, do. We argue thatprincipal preparation needs to incorporate knowledge about social, economic, political and geographicfeatures of school settings, how communities operate and how principals can work effectively withcommunity partners. We focus on challenges encountered by novice principals in remote communitieswhere the principal's ability to be sensitive to contextual circumstances is fundamental to maintainingdiversity. Principals are challenged by these exotic settings as much as by the distance, the desert, thedifference, for all of which they are ill-prepared.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 29-42 |
Journal | International Studies in Educational Administration |
Volume | 37 |
Issue number | 1 |
Publication status | Published - 2009 |