By Langton Chikaka, Head Zimuto High School
A trending head, or a thought leader, is distinguished from the ordinary by several key characteristics. They have a unique perspective, expertise, influence, authenticity sharp communication skills, visionary thinking adaptability and consistency. The best school leaders possess a combination of skills, traits and qualities that enable them to effectively manage and inspire their schools. To remain relevant the following are the school head’s currency.
- Know trends in education
A school leader needs to be conversant with the latest educational trends. These include but not limited to: being knowledgeable about blended learning the rise of STEM/STEAM education and the increasing focus on social and emotional leaning. A good school head shares with learners, staff and colleagues how these trends are shaping the educational milieu and can share notes on ways to integrate them into their school culture. It can be noted that these trends reflect a broader shift towards student centred, innovative and inclusive approaches to education with a focus to preparing learners for success in the 21 century. - Policy Update
A school head should always keep abreast with recent changes in educational policy e.g Education Amendment Act 2020, school based project the Heritage Based curriculum to mention but a few.
- Tech-Savvy
In this digital era, being tech-savvy is quintessential and a non-negotiable aspect of educational leadership. As a school head, one should be familiar with the latest educational technology tools and platforms and understand how these can enhance learning and administration efficiency.Share with learners, parents, staff and colleagues specific technologies you intend to use or plan to implement explaining how these (technologies) can support learner engagement, personalised learning or data driven decision making. Your ability to integrate technology into education demonstrates your commitment to fostering a modern learning milieu. You can advocate for using google sheet to compile, analyse and visualise data from learners,assessments, quizzes and examinations.
4.Equity focus
School heads by virtue of their positions enjoyed to address the critical issue of equity in education at their institutions. By requirement, school heads should appreciate and comprehend the importance of creating inclusive learning environments which cater for diverse student populations. A head who is a notch above others can look for strategies to close achievement gaps, support special education and ensure that all learners have access to quality education irrespective of their backgrounds. The Head’s appreciation, awareness and commitment to equity will demonstrate their capability to lead with empathy and social responsibility.
- Student Well Being
Handling learner’s well-being is a crucial aspect of a school head’s role. Together with staff and learners themselves, the school head should create a safe and supportive environment that foster a culture of inclusivity, respect and empathy. The school head must promote positive relationships and provide access to counselling services. In addition, the school head must foster a growth mind-set, encourage learners to view challenges as opportunities for growth, encourage health habits, exercise and mental wellness. Effort should be made to stay informed about learners’ needs and regularly address learners’ wellbeing needs.
While there are many traits, skills and qualities which can propel a school head to prominence, the five which have been given space in this article distinguished excellence and mediocrity.
The school head who possesses the five traits can easily create a dynamic, supportive and inclusive learning environment, driving learner success and school excellence.
The writer is an experienced administrator since 2005. He has worked and served as a school head at Mutauto, Holy Family secondary schools. Chapwanya, Hande and Makumbe High Schools. He is the c urrent Head Zimuto RCZ High School. He is former Provincial Head in Charge responsible for English Language and Foreign Languages from 2023 -2025. He is a holder of a diploma in Education, Bachelor of Education, Master of Business Administration and many other certificates and diplomas in administration.
