Leadership Learning for Pre-Service and Early Career Teachers: Insights From Ireland and Scotland

Abstract

Teachers’ leadership learning should arguably commence in the initial stages of their preservice education. However, the scope for leadership learning in pre-service teacher preparation is
\nquestionably less prominent. This paper presents findings from the first phase of an ongoing qualitative
\nresearch study that is exploring the extent of leadership learning in pre-service teacher education in
\nthree education systems (i.e. Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Scotland). It discusses
\nparticipants’ receptivity and challenges of leadership learning at the pre-service and early career stages.
\nThe paper highlights the need for strengthening leadership elements in pre-service teacher education
\nprogrammes and for developing supportive structures and cultures within and beyond schools, to
\npromote leadership learning for teachers