The role of middle leaders in shaping effective professional learning and development in curriculum departments in secondary schools

Abstract

This paper describes the agentic leadership of professional learning and development described by curriculum middle leaders in secondary schools in New Zealand. The data were gathered from 30 interviews undertaken with curriculum middle leaders in 2023. The interviews were conducted with a diverse group of participants, including those leading large departments of 20 plus staff in urban secondary schools and others holding positions in smaller rural schools. The results revealed middle leaders had a strong commitment to developing relationships with their teachers, recognising the importance for collegiality, connectedness and communication. They demonstrated innovative ideas to support the ..