Induction for newly appointed principals and deputy principals

Mr Taylor was one of the deputy principals at Model High School. He and the other deputy principal as well as one HoD were shortlisted for the post of principal. The principal had retired 6 months earlier. Both deputies had turns acting in the position while the post was being advertised. Mr Taylor was successful in the interview and was appointed as principal.

Mr Taylor thought the first few months went well as he was so busy settling into his position. He did not notice that the staff were divided. As the June exams were approaching, Mr Taylor noticed that some members of the SMT were not responding in the meetings, looked sullen and non-committed, especially the deputy principal. The work for exams however was divided among the SMT and report backs were expected the following week. The deputy principal was expected to draw up the examination timetable. However, at the next meeting, the work was not forthcoming.

Some of the Heads of Department responded and they completed the work for the exams. The principal had to do a lot of the work himself. It was at this time he realised that the staff members are also divided into two camps; one camp supported the deputy principal and the other supported him.

In your groups, discuss the questions below. Each participant should post at least two comments and two replies.