On becoming teacher leaders: understanding the needs of novice deputy heads of primary schools in Hong Kong

Abstract

A new group of primary school deputy heads has emerged as the new rank, SPSM, has been created for deputy heads of primary schools in Hong Kong with effect from 1 September 2008. On becoming teacher leaders, these deputy heads are serving significant roles in primary schools. The literature reviews that there are few local studies in this area. This study has recognized the research need to understand the needs of novice deputy heads. 489 invitation letters were sent to all SPSMs in ordinary aided and government primary schools in Hong Kong in March 2011 and five SPSMs participated in this study. A qualitative approach was adopted, including focus group interviews, individual interviews, shadowing, and analyses of relevant documents. Results of the study indicate that underlying the needs that they have voiced out (such as the need for more time and ‘space’, collegial support, appropriate professional development and training) are two fundamental issues, namely, their readiness for leadership responsibilities and their capacity for the multiple roles of a deputy head. This study also indicates that their needs are varied and personal. Their needs are affected by their major roles and responsibilities, different situations in schools, the decision and attitude of their principals, relationship with fellow staff, personal background, experience, mindset, and values, and situations in the local context. Implications on the ways in which their needs could be met indicate that besides issues related to other parties and provisions from external sources, more fundamental is the transformation from within, that is, a switch of mindset from being a teacher, a manager, to a leader.