ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the ways in which national policy informs leadership practice. It considers what models and styles of leadership are expected of school leaders, and the extent to which these normative expectations are fulfilled. The chapter assesses the extent to which leadership is distributed to middle and senior leaders. It explores the nature of leadership preparation for principals, with a specific focus on the role of Institut Aminuddin Baki in the preparation process. The chapter offers some thoughts, and some advice, about the future development of school leadership in Malaysia. The impressive Malaysia Education Blueprint remains the main policy-driver for education, including school leadership. The contingent model provides an alternative approach, recognising the diverse nature of school contexts, and the advantages of adapting leadership styles to the situation, rather than adopting a ‘one size fits all’ stance.
