Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the learning environment in schools that influence teaching and learning. Design/methodology/approach: A study was conducted using the Instructional Leadership Model to compare principal practices of instructional leaders in the Islamic Religious Secondary Schools and Islamic Religious Schools of Government Assistance. Findings: The paper discusses some of the findings in the dimension of promoting the learning environment. The six dimensions are: protecting instructional time; maintaining high visibility; providing incentives for teachers; promoting professional development; providing incentives for learning; and having high expectations. Originality/value: The paper's findings indicate that the principals in Islamic Religious Secondary Schools promote a more positive learning environment in schools compared to Islamic Religious Schools of Government Assistance. (Contains 3 tables.)