Leadership styles of school heads and school performance: the case of private secondary schools in Dodoma municipality

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the leadership styles of school heads and school performance in private secondary schools within Dodoma Municipality. The study specifically identified the leadership style(s) mostly preferred by school heads and owners of private secondary schools. The study then examined the existing relationship between leadership styles of school heads and school performance in private secondary schools. Moreover, the most effective leadership style in producing better school performance in private secondary schools has been determined. This study was mainly qualitative supported by quantitative research approach. It was basically a survey research design conducted in six private secondary schools. The study was guided by the Context, Input, Process and Product (CIPP) model. A total of 163 participants were involved in this study. These participants were selected through Non- probability sampling design. Data collection was done using questionnaires, interview guides and observation guides. The findings revealed that leadership styles of school heads determine, to a large extent, school performance in private secondary schools. However, it was found that the level of school performance can not solely be determined by the leadership style in place. This means that there are other factors which are equally important for school performance. These include the presence of qualified teachers, adequate teaching and learning resources, a conducive teaching and learning school environment and a positive school culture. The study recommends the need to equip school heads with various leadership skills so as to make them conversant in their daily activities as school heads towards the attainment of better school performance.