The implementation of the integrated quality management system in Soweto primary schools

Abstract

Abstract Evidence in literature indicates that the implementation of the Integrated Quality Management System (IQMS) in South African public schools is faced with many challenges and problems. Many studies have been conducted on teachers’ perceptions and experiences with the implementation of the Integrated Quality Management System, but little has been done to show how leadership can influence the effective implementation of the IQMS in public schools particularly Soweto primary schools. The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate leadership in the implementation of the Integrated Quality Management System in Soweto primary schools. The study also intended to explore teachers’ experiences and perceptions with leadership in their schools and the implementation of the Integrated Quality Management System. Purposive sampling was used to select the participants. The research was restricted to four primary schools in Soweto. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and the case-study method was used. The findings disclosed that most of the participants felt that the Integrated Quality Management System is not the right tool or strategy for teacher profession development.