The English National College for School Leadership organized a programme of study visits to several international leadership centres in 2001. This article reports the findings of these visits and relates them to recent research on school leadership preparation. This shows a widespread commitment to training and preparation for headship but considerable diversity in the nature of such provision. There are many courses for aspiring, beginning and experienced principals but few examples of a coherent programme for all three stages. Preparation for leadership teams and middle managers is very limited. Learning modes include on-line provison, mentoring, coaching and internship as well as courses. The article recommends the establishment of an international network of leadership centres.
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