Teacher Transition to Headship: Exploring the Challenges and Support System Opportunities in Public Basic Schools in Effutu Municipality

Headteachers play a pivotal role in the effective management and administration of schools. This study aimed to scrutinize the transition process of teachers to headship positions in public basic schools within the Effutu Municipality, examining the associated challenges. Additionally, the research investigated the impact of these challenges on the administrative and managerial roles of headteachers, while also exploring the support systems available to enhance their performance. The study utilized a concurrent mixed method design, employing both a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview guide to collect data. The sample selection involved the use of expert sampling for headteachers, proportionate stratified random sampling for teachers at the rank due for headship, and criterion sampling for qualitative data, resulting in a total of 116 participants, yielding a robust 93.96% respondent rate from the target population of 183 professionals. Quantitative data underwent analysis using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), with results presented through descriptive statistics such as means, percentages, and frequency counts. Qualitative data were subjected to a four-tier coding process involving open or initial coding, focused coding and category development, axial and thematic coding, and the development of theoretical concepts. The study uncovered that challenges related to material resources, coupled with deficiencies in administrative and managerial skills among headteachers, significantly compromise their role performance. Support systems identified to enhance headteachers’ performance included mentorship, peer group support, as well as pre and post-training programs. In light of these findings, the study recommends that the Effutu Education Directorate should organize pre and post-training programs for headteachers upon their appointment. Furthermore, providing necessary material resources to facilitate their functions is crucial for effective school management and administration. These recommendations aim to address the identified challenges and promote a supportive environment for headteachers within the Effutu Municipality.