School Principal
Tasks & duties
School principals may do some or all of the following:
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provide leadership for teaching and administrative staff
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supervise the guidance and discipline of students
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foster relationships between their schools and their local communities
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report to parents, whānau or caregivers on students' progress
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market their schools' services
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ensure staff appraisals are carried out annually
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advise boards of trustees and ensure their guidelines are met
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manage school budgets
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provide reports to the Ministry of Education and community groups
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seek government funding and sponsorship for their schools
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may teach classes
Skills & knowledge
School principals need to have:
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teaching skills and knowledge of the curriculum
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leadership skills
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knowledge of management systems and methods
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understanding of Ministry of Education guidelines
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classroom management skills, including an understanding of behaviour management
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good communication skills and the ability to relate well to students and adults
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administrative skills, including budgeting skills
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knowledge of school rules and procedures, including safety and emergency procedures
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knowledge of how to access services that provide support and help to teachers
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an appreciation of the diverse needs of students
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understanding of a range of cultures
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planning and organisational skills
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problem-solving skills
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first aid skills
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information and communications technology (ICT) skills
Entry requirements
To become a school principal you need to have several years of teaching experience (which means you must have relevant teaching qualification and may also have a general degree). Management or education administration training is useful.
Secondary education
A tertiary entrance qualification is needed to enter university and teacher training.
Training on the job
Skills are gained on the job. Most principals learn about the role by working in a deputy principal or senior administrative position. Professional development courses help new principals and deputy principals prepare for their new role. New principals can attend an 18-month First-time Principals Programme. Principals with more than three years experience can attend leadership courses such as those run by the Principals' Development Planning Centre.
Registration
To become a school principal you must be a registered teacher.
Useful experience
Useful experience for school principals includes teaching, management work and counselling. It is also very useful for school principals to have experience as a senior teacher, deputy or assistant principal.
Related courses
Curriculum Studies
Education Administration
Education Studies
General Primary and Secondary Education
Teacher Education: General (Pre-Service)
Teacher Education: Primary (Pre-Service)
Teacher Education: Secondary (Pre-Service)
Teacher Professional Development
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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