by Brinda Junkere

Created on: November 15, 2009

One of the identifying features of a successful school is quality leadership. Quality leadership begins with a good principal. There are a number of essential traits that a school principal should have in order to give quality leadership. Some of these are specific to the primary school principal.

Firstly, the principal's relationship with students and staff is a key ingredient in making or breaking the school. In dealing with the young students it is important that the principal knows students' names and talks with students on a regular basis. This will make students feel important and increase their confidence in the principal. Students will also realize that the principal is interested in their well-being.

Also, the principal should have a sense of humour. The principal should not be seen only as a strict disciplinarian. There should be times when the principal should be able to lighten the moment or share a laugh with the kids. This will make the principal seem more approachable and human especially to young children who may have a fear of authority figures.

The principal should display kindness in a way that will make a difference to both staff and student. Children usually remember little acts of kindness that is shown to them and are prone to be more respectful and obedient to those who show them kindness. Also, the principal should always be ready to show appreciation to those who deserve it.

Good teaching practice is necessary in a primary school since the foundation for learning starts there. Therefore, the principal should possess the capacity to develop strong teachers. As strong teachers are developed then it becomes easy for the principal to help them cultivate good teaching practices. In addition, the principal should not tolerate bad teachers since these may negatively impact students' well-being.

Young children need good role models. The primary school principal should be a role model to both students and staff. The principal must display behaviors that can be emulated and desired by students. In other words students should be able to look up to their principal.

Elementary school students need firm leadership and if this is not present, they will quickly realize it and take advantage of leniency. It follows then, that the school principal must be able to be authoritative when it is necessary. The ability to be in charge when the need arises is important. Standards, goals and expectations should always be clearly stated. Consequences for breaking rules must be fair and consistent and the principal should ensure that students are aware of them.

Much is expected of the primary school principal since these are the years which shape and mold the lives of children. Therefore the primary school principal should endeavor to possess the traits or characteristics which are consistent with quality leadership.

Learn more about this author, Brinda Junkere.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.