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From Appointment to Impact: Induction Training Programme of Newly appointed Deputy Principals and Principals

Published on May 20, 2025

Leadership

Matthew Goniwe School of Leadership and Governance in partnership with the Gauteng Department of Education successfully hosted a two-day Induction Programme for Newly Appointed Principals and Deputy Principals on 15 and 16 May 2025, reaffirming their commitment to equipping school leaders with the knowledge, skills, and professional grounding required to lead schools with confidence, integrity, and competence.

Firmly aligned with the Department's strategic drivers, particularly around school leadership and management, the programme, Management Toolkit module, the first of four modules, seeks to ensure that all newly appointed principals and deputy principals are well-prepared for their roles. The Management Toolkit module emphasises the importance of understanding both professional expectations and the specific context of the schools they serve, helping new leaders’ transition effectively into their positions.

Over the course of the two days, participants engaged in several critical focus areas. These included the structural arrangements of the education system at provincial, district, and school levels; the South African Standard for Principalship, which defines key leadership and management competencies; and the legislation and policy frameworks that shape school operations, governance, and accountability. In addition, the training explored the roles and responsibilities of principals, looking at their duties through strategic, executive, organisational, and cultural lenses. It also covered the principles of Whole School Development, helping school leaders prioritise key activities and plan effectively for sustainable improvement.

By the end of the programme, participants had developed a comprehensive understanding of the broader educational landscape, gained clarity on their responsibilities as school leaders, and acquired practical tools to manage and lead effectively. This foundational training not only prepared them for the challenges ahead but also empowered them to lead with vision and purpose.

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