The strategic role of leadership in preventing early school leaving and failure

Abstract

The retention and success of all students in education systems are a global imperatives. However, the number of students disengaged from mainstream education suggests a need to take a closer look at the role school leaders play in improving educational outcomes for students and decreasing the number of early school leavers. In this article, we explore how school leadership can create a culture of success to improve student achievement, progress, and retention. Three cases from the International Successful School Principalship Project are presented of the leadership of a primary school and two secondary
schools from Melbourne, Australia. Understanding the needs of the school, working with students, staff and the greater community to effect change was a crucial starting point for each leader. Strong principal leadership, high expectations, a clear vision for change, and a commitment to success were all critical elements for reform.