Abstract:
In this paper toxic leadership refers to destructive leadership where the school principal and the
School Governing Bodies are in constant conflict over their functions. One might think that school principals and
school governing bodies are working harmoniously in schools. In some township schools, especially in Gauteng
secondary schools there is a challenge experienced by both school principals and School Governing Bodies (SGBs).
Trust is a critical element for effective leadership and governance in schools. In some township schools in South
Africa there is a challenge experienced by both school principals and school governing bodies. Their disagreements
lead to ineffective teaching and learning in schools. All other stakeholders’ effectiveness in the Gauteng Township
schools depends on the leadership of the school principals and the School Governing Bodies. The negative effects
of toxic leadership on teaching and learning in schools are the following, namely: poor working relationship
between stakeholders; dysfunctional schools; poor teaching and learning; neglect of duty by stakeholders; abuse of
power by school principal and SGBs; inadequate resources; no mutual trust; fear; unregulated freedom; and unacceptable
behavior This is not an exhaustive list.
