The influence of school leadership on commitment, motivation, trust and interpersonal conflict among teachers at selected secondary schools in the Phoenix central region

Abstract

The writer's observation of staff at selected secondary schools in the Phoenix Central Region has indicated that serious problems exist at these schools. The problems identified relate to teachers' lack of commitment, motivation, trust and the presence of interpersonal conflict among them. These observations have been found to be similar to the findings of other researchers and numerous articles that have appeared in the media also confirm the existence of similar problems in other schools in South Africa. The problems mentioned above have had a negative impact on the effectiveness of these schools in achieving their goals. The writer believes that these problems can be connected to a lack of effective leadership on the part of principals in these schools. In this study the writer reviewed the relevant literature in order to identify strategies that principals could use to overcome the problems outlined above. To isolate and address the root causes of the problems, the writer found it necessary to clarify and distinguish between the key concepts of 'leadership' and 'management'. Thereafter, the writer discussed some important skills and qualities he believes are necessary for effective leadership.