ABSTRACT
The chapter considers the potential benefits to be derived from the application of a competency-based approach to education management. Competencies and competency-based assessment procedures have not to date achieved widespread usage in the education sector. In their appropriate use, robustly generated and validated, competencies present the best vehicle presently available to us for an objective diagnosis of development and training needs, and a systematic approach to selection and recruitment. There are potential benefits in adopting a competence framework for staff working in school at all levels; the focus here however is on the application of a competency-based approach to senior managerial positions in school and in particular to the post of headteacher.
