Abstract:
The purpose of this paper is to report on some of the preliminary findings from survey data collected for the Beginning Principals Study (hereafter referred to B.P.S.), a longitudinal study being conducted in Victoria, Australia. Three groups of beginning principals have been surveyed; January appointments 1989, mid-year appointments 1989 and January appointments 1990. The paper examines findings related to the reasons for the respondents applying for a principal's position, the perceived keys to success on entry, the main issues/problems confronting them on arrival - internal issues, external issues, personal issues - the major tasks to be undertaken and the sources of help and assistance.