Examining principals’ practices for identifying and nurturing middle leadership

Abstract

This study investigates how principals, as instructional leaders, support the identification and development of middle leaders in schools. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 experienced principals from diverse school settings. The study used purposive sampling and employed a qualitative research design, utilising thematic analysis to identify key patterns and themes. Four significant ways of working that foster middle leadership development emerged: identifying emergent talent, targeted leadership development, engaging part-time employees, and developing autonomy and trust. The study also revealed that principals exhibit servant and system leadership practices in addition to i..