ABSTRACT
A discussion of ethical leadership introduces the interview with Bob Challis, Principal of Abingdon and Whitney College until September, 2004. Bob placed a very high priority on student success, and on the moral dimension of supporting students to achieve what they came into the College to learn. Bob valued the importance of coaching to encourage and develop staff, He recognised the enormous contribution made by his senior team, and by many talented individuals in the College who helped to achieve success. Wary of ‘heroic leadership’ models, Bob emphasised strong values, including honesty, integrity and trust He said he would like to see ‘principal internships’ being set up for the coaching and support of new leaders. Bob pointed out the many strengths of Abingdon and Whitney College, which achieved Grade 1 for governance in inspection during 1997/8 and was the only college in the South East to achieve accredited status under the FEFC.
