This paper argues that studies of middle leaders have focused too much on their functions and characteristics, taking insufficient account of the influence of social and political contexts on leaders' choices of actions. Use of the analytical framework of Communities of Practice (Wenger, 1998) can address this oversight, but it pays insufficient…

Much of the emphasis on the learning of subject leaders in secondary schools is placed on what Eraut (2000) terms "organised formal learning events". This article attempts to redress the balance by focusing on the somewhat neglected area of their informal learning about the role, which is predominantly based in the workplace. It is argued that…

Critical analysis of literature dealing with theory, policy, and empirical research on subject leaders in secondary schools in England and Wales. (Contains 47 references.) (PKP)

Discusses ways in which the distinctive nature of the subject being taught has important implications for the management of teaching and learning by department heads. Reports the perceptions of department heads working in four areas of the curriculum--English, Mathematics, Science, and Technology--in secondary schools in Wales. Finds range of…

Explores preparation and training of subject department heads in British secondary schools, based on interviews with 36 Welsh department heads. Heads of department valued learning about their role when working with previous heads (professional socialization) and different kinds of learning experienced when becoming heads (organizational…

Argues that contingency theory offers a useful basis for considering the work of subject heads of department in (British) secondary schools, particularly if heads are actively trying to influence the quality of teaching and learning in their curriculum areas. Develops a provisional model to shed light on how department heads actually work with…