HM AND PRINCIPAL AS A LEADER

Hm and principal as a leader

     OUTCOMES OF STUDY

Understanding Leadership Roles – Students gain a clear understanding of how Headmasters and Principals act as academic and administrative leaders in schools.

Knowledge of Functions – Learners become aware of the major functions such as supervision, planning, curriculum management, financial control, staff appraisal, and community relations.

Differentiation of Roles – The study helps in distinguishing between the responsibilities of a Headmaster (school-level) and a Principal (higher/college-level).

Application in Practice – Trainee teachers can apply organisational and leadership principles while working in schools, enhancing professional competency.

Promoting Democratic Climate – Emphasis on participatory leadership encourages democratic values, cooperation, and positive institutional culture.

Contribution to Quality Education – By understanding effective leadership, future educators contribute to improved teaching-learning processes and student outcomes.

      INTRODUCTION

•  In the context of school organisation, the Headmaster (HM) at the elementary/secondary level and the Principal at the higher secondary/college level are the key leaders who guide the school’s academic vision, manage resources, and ensure a positive learning environment.

• They act as administrators, visionaries, and motivators, balancing managerial duties with educational leadership.

•  A good HM or Principal fosters a culture of teamwork, innovation, and academic excellence while ensuring discipline and accountability.

                          
 
 
 
MEANING OF LEADERSHIP IN SCHOOL ORGANISATION

•  Leadership in schools refers to the ability to influence, guide, and inspire teachers, students, and the community towards achieving educational goals.

•  The HM/Principal is both:
•  An administrative head – manages infrastructure, staff, and policies.
•  An instructional leader – improves teaching–learning quality.

             
ROLES OF HM/ PRINCIPAL AS A LEADER
1. Academic Leader
    Formulates a clear vision and mission for the school.
    Supervises lesson planning, teaching methods, and curriculum implementation.
    Encourages innovation and adoption of modern pedagogical techniques.

2.Administrative Leader
   Prepares timetables, allocates duties, manages school records.
   Co-ordinates school activities and committees.
   Maintains discipline among staff and students

3.Motivator and Guide
   Encourages teachers’ professional development.
   Recognises achievements and creates a supportive environment.
   Acts as a mentor to staff and students

4. Community Leader
   Builds strong school–community relations.
   Involves parents in decision-making (PTA meetings).
   Mobilises local resources for school development
 
                 
 
FUNCTIONS OF HM/ PRINCIPAL AS A LEADER

1.    Planning: Setting educational goals and creating strategies.
2.    Organising: Structuring school activities, resources, and  roles.
3.    Directing: Guiding teachers and students to achieve set goals.
4.    Coordinating: Ensuring different departments work harmoniously.
5.    Controlling: Monitoring performance, maintaining discipline.
6.    Evaluating: Assessing teaching-learning outcomes and taking corrective  measures.

                  
 
QUALITIES OF AN EFFECTIVE HM/ PRINCIPAL

•  Visionary thinking
•  Integrity and fairness
•  Decision-making ability
•  Good communication skills
•  Emotional intelligence
•  Adaptability
•  Commitment to student welfare

               
 
 

 
 
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HM AND PRINCIPAL

Point of Difference	Headmaster (HM)	Principal
Level of Institution	Usually heads primary or secondary schools (classes 1–10).	Heads higher secondary schools, colleges, or large educational institutions.
Scope of  Administration	Smaller administrative scope – fewer teachers and classes to manage.	Broader scope – more departments, larger staff, multiple streams (science, arts, commerce).
Designation Usage	Common in schools under state boards and government schools in India.	Used in senior secondary schools, colleges, and professional institutions.
Academic Leadership	Focuses on basic education and foundational learning outcomes.	Focuses on advanced curriculum and preparing students for higher education/careers.

 
 

Pay Scale & Rank

Generally lower rank in pay scale compared to principals.

Higher administrative rank and pay scale.

Decision-making Power

Limited to school-level     issues; major decisions      approved by   DEO/education department.

Greater autonomy in academic, financial, and policy matters, especially in colleges.

 
 CONCLUSION
 
     The HM and Principal are not mere managers of schools; they are transformational leaders who shape the future of students, teachers, and the institution.

    By combining administrative efficiency with inspirational leadership, they can create a vibrant and inclusive learning environment that meets the demands of modern education.
 
REFERENCE
 
 Aggarwal, J.C. – School Organisation, Administration and Management
 Bhatnagar, R.P. & Verma, I.B. – Educational  Administration
 S. Rengarajan – Educational Administration and Management
 Sidhu, Kulbir Singh – School Organisation and Administration