Perceptions of pre-service and in-service teachers regarding the effectiveness of elementary school leadership in Cyprus

Compares the views of pre-service and in-service elementary school teachers regarding the effectiveness of school leaders in Cyprus. Data were collected from 66 in-service teachers, and 79 pre-service teachers enrolled at the University of Cyprus. The findings indicate that in-service teachers were significantly more positive than pre-service teachers in their assessment of school principals. The former considered the weaknesses associated with principals to be mainly the result of the limitations of the educational system in Cyprus, whereas the latter expected their future superiors to be ineffective in their management of interpersonal relationships. The paper points to the need for better training and preparation of both school leaders and teachers before their appointments.