Principals Are an Important Aspect in Determining the Priorities for Continued Development and Improvement of Standards in Their Schools
Abu Dhabi: 17 January, 2010. The Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) has conducted an information workshop on the Professional Standards for Principals Program for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. A selection of Principals from across all cycles of the Abu Dhabi education sector attended the workshop where they were briefed on the new framework for leadership in schools. Principals welcomed these new changes and applauded ADEC for its efforts in strengthening the foundation of Abu Dhabi’s education sector.
New professional qualifications for principals are being introduced for newly appointed Principals as part of ADEC’s 10 Year Strategic Plan that will deliver educational excellence across the Emirate. Principals were provided with information on how the new standards and guidelines were formed, had the opportunity to have input into the indicators and had a chance to address any questions about the Standards.
“Principals are the leaders of our schools and provide motivation and skill development guidance for the teachers who are face to face with our children every day. It’s important for us to support principals in doing their job and ensure that they are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to achieve the highest standards of learning in Abu Dhabi” said H.E. Dr Mugheer Khamis Al-Khaili, Director General of ADEC.
“Education is built on a universal foundation but it is dynamic and changes as business, the economy, technology and society change which means we need to constantly keep up to date with changing approaches. We will continue to work in partnership with principals across the system to ensure that we put education first” add H.E. Dr Al-Khaili.
During the workshops ADEC delivered a presentation on key elements needed for effective leadership. These included: Leading Strategically; Leading Teaching and Learning; Leading the Organization; Leading People; and Leading the Community.
Principals also had the opportunity to participate in an open discussion about educational and learning issues. Consultation with Principals is becoming an important aspect for ADEC. This is planned to ensure educational professionals are up to date with new learning techniques and ADEC standards in line with ADEC’s 10 Year Strategic Plan and its goal of achieving educational excellence in the Emirate.
“Professionalism is a part of our everyday lives,” said Ms Sheikha Khalfan, Principal of Al Rayaheen Kindergarten in Al Ain. “Through this workshop, ADEC was able to open our eyes to the smaller details that make up the bigger picture,” she added. The general atmosphere of the workshop was very positive and the discussion about the Standards was received very well. This was met with much enthusiasm from the group of principals who will in turn discuss it with their colleagues. It is planned that Principals will continue to be involved as the process develops.
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