The effects of toxic leadership on teaching and learning in South African township schools

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.