Educational leadership programmes in the UK

Abstract

This article presents the evidence of stress-related training for the school leader in the UK. It is intended to stimulate thought and interest in the subject of stress preparation for extant and aspiring school leaders through a review of the current literature and the presentation of data from all UK training institutions and universities. Importantly, the approach from the main training providers, including the National College, the National Association of Head Teachers and the Department of Education, will be explored. Evidence will be given from dialogues with managers and directors who are responsible for managing and directing these programmes. The literature review will show that the range of materials specifically on stress and the school leader is limited and that there is a need for further empirical evidence and research on the subject. It will also place stress and ‘stressors’ in a broader psychological perspective to approach an understanding of how stress relates to the person and well-being.