Distance education training programmes for foundation phase heads of departments could be the answer to balancing time and tasks

Abstract

When striving to balance their dual role as leaders and teachers, Foundation Phase Heads of Departments (HoDs) have found themselves challenged and under stress. The Personnel Administrative Measures (PAM) document was used to examine challenges with regard to their roles and responsibilities, based on the conceptual framework of instructional leadership. A quantitative research approach was used to assess perceptions of 274 Foundation Phase HoDs in Mpumalanga. Data was analysed using the SPSS 20.0 statistical package. It was found that HoDs perceived that they were overworked, whereas in reality, the amount of time they spent in school was less than that suggested in the PAM document. Most HoDs left school earlier than anticipated and had insuffi cient time for supervision and administration. This resulted in stress, as they could not fulfi l their roles and responsibilities. It is concluded that HoDs should conform to the requirements of the PAM document. Training or mentoring should be undertaken by the Department of Education in collaboration with universities to make sure that HoDs are capable and competent. Distance education for HoDs could be the answer to balancing time and completing the tasks required of the Foundation Phase HoD.