Abstract
This paper is concerned with the impact of school reform on the professional culture of the principalship, drawing on findings from several research projects from 1993 to 1998. The focus is the schools of the future reform in Victoria, Australia. Despite several dysfunctions, some unfulfilled expectations and intensification of work, a large majority of principals would not wish to return to previous arrangements. Case studies reveal that principals play an important role in helping to link the structural aspects of reform to learning and teaching. Leadership is strategic and empowering more than it is heroic or “hands on”.

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