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National Professional Standard for School Principals
National Professional Standard for School Principals
Mr Anthony Mackay, Chair of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL), welcomed the announcement of Australia’s first National Professional Standard for Principals by Education Ministers.
“The national focus of the Standard provides an opportunity for members of the education profession - irrespective of sector, level of schooling, geographic, economic or social context or jurisdiction – to describe the professional practice of effective principals and to make it accessible and meaningful to others” said
Mr Mackay.
“School principals are instrumental in preparing young Australians for their future and the role they will play in the future of our country. They are responsible and accountable for developing young people so that they can become successful learners, confident and creative individuals and active informed citizens. It is an exciting, complex and challenging role,” said Mr Mackay.
“The Standard captures this complexity. It provides a model against which principals can evaluate their knowledge, qualities, experiences and skills. It will assist them to determine their strengths and areas for development to successfully lead their school,” explained Mr Mackay.
The Standard can be used by individuals, employing authorities and professional bodies alike.
It is a basis for attracting, preparing, developing and supporting principals to lead 21st century schools.
“The Standard was tested with principals and other stakeholders through a series of pilot studies and has already been taken up by jurisdictions and sectors across the country to support the design, complement or further develop professional learning programs. It provides a strong template for effective professional learning,” said Mr Mackay.
AITSL led the development of the Standard in close collaboration with principals themselves as well as employers in the government, Catholic and independent sectors, professional bodies and education unions.
Mr Mackay also noted that “it will give parents, employers and others interested in the future of education in this country confidence in and greater understanding of the great job our school principals do.”
The release of the Standard is complemented by the launch of a Clearinghouse for School Leadership Development Strategies.
The Clearinghouse (clearinghouse.aitsl.edu.au) is an interactive research repository and online tool designed to support Australia’s school leaders, including those who are aspiring to the role.
Mr Mackay explained that the Clearinghouse will directly support the implementation of the Standard. “The site acts as a knowledge hub placing principals, deputies and department heads in direct contact with research and ideas, as well as connecting them with their peers.”
“I am very confident that an Australian National Professional Standard for Principals together with the expertise and information accessed through the Clearinghouse will provide genuine support to school leaders as they work to improve the educational outcomes and future well-being of all young Australians” said Mr Mackay.