The RCLs of schools in the townships need to take ownership of learner development within the school. The driving force, the School Management Team or the Teacher Liason Officer of the RCL as a collective must identify a theme and put structures in place so that the RCL function at an acceptable level. Examples of themes are beautifying our school surroundings by establishing a flower garden, encouraging co-operation within the school and encouraging & establishing extra mural activities at school. The theme must be the collaborative work of all the learners within the school.
| The Role of the Principal as an Instructional Leader |
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A school principal's role as instructional leader involves seven distinct responsibilities:
1. Curriculum KnowledgeThe principal needs to be fully informed on all aspects of curriculum policy as ultimate accountability for delivery rests with him/her, even if responsibility for the management of this portfolio has been delegated to the Curriculum Director.
2. Staff DevelopmentThe principal needs to ensure that the educators are comprehensively trained to enable them to deliver the curriculum and fully understand their responsibilities. There will, in addition, be other staff development initiatives besides those focusing on the curriculum.
3. Classroom TeachingThe Personnel Administration Measures (PAM) stipulate that the principal must engage in class teaching as per the workload requirements of the specific post level. This is important in order for the principal to experience the practicalities of curriculum delivery and to share the workload of the educators.
4. Articulating the school's values, vision and missionThe principal is required to take the lead in addressing various stakeholders on issues pertaining to the school's values, vision and mission in order to motivate them and foster alignment.
5. Educating ParentsThe principal must ensure that parents are informed of the supportive role they need to play in their children's education and must try to unpack the complexities of the curriculum so that they understand it.
6. Educating GovernorsThe principal must ensure that governors are trained on their roles and responsibilities and must guide them in the execution of their duties.
7. Educating the RCLThe principal must ensure that the RCL members are trained on their roles and responsibilities and must guide them in the execution of their duties. This responsibility may be delegated to the RCL Co-ordinator, but the principal retains accountability.
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