Instructional Leadership Institute: Transforming Education in South Africa

Despite significant investments in South Africa's education system, student performance across the country remains a pressing challenge. Schools continue to face systemic issues, and many educators struggle with discipline, teaching methodologies, and adapting to the evolving needs of learners. At the heart of addressing these challenges lies a critical but often overlooked factor: school leadership. On Morning Cruise at Bush Radio 89.5fm, we had the opportunity to speak with Sakeena Elloker, Head of Programmes and Instructional Coach at the Instructional Leadership Institute (ILI), about the realities of school leadership in South Africa and the role of instructional leadership in improving education outcomes.

The Instructional Leadership Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to equipping school leaders with the skills and strategies needed to transform their schools. As Sakeena explained, instructional leadership goes beyond administrative duties—it is about guiding and supporting teachers to enhance the quality of teaching and learning. "When school leaders support teachers effectively, we see improved teaching, and in turn, better learner outcomes," she said.

Unlike traditional school leadership models that focus on administration and compliance, instructional leadership prioritizes classroom learning. School leaders, including principals and deputy principals, play a crucial role in shaping their school's culture, providing direct support to teachers, and fostering an environment where students can thrive.

During our discussion, Sakeena acknowledged the numerous challenges school leaders and educators face daily. "We see poor reading and math results, challenges with learner discipline, and schools struggling with limited resources," she noted. Beyond the classroom, many of these issues stem from broader societal problems, including economic hardship, lack of parental involvement, and disparities between well-resourced and under-resourced schools.

Another challenge is the need to adapt to a rapidly changing world. Many schools still follow outdated education models that do not equip students with the skills needed in the 21st century. Additionally, the digital age has transformed how young people engage with learning. "Today's students multitask, rely on technology, and learn in different ways. Instructional leadership helps school leaders understand and adapt to these changes while ensuring quality education for all learners," Sakeena explained.

One of the core strategies ILI employs is instructional coaching. Unlike one-time training sessions, instructional coaching is a continuous process that provides school leaders with ongoing guidance and mentorship. Using the "See It, Name It, Do It" (SINIDI) approach, instructional coaches help school leaders identify challenges, implement targeted solutions, and refine their strategies over time.

Sakeena shared a key insight from their work: "The biggest difference between traditional leadership and instructional leadership is that instead of working primarily from an office, school leaders engage actively in classrooms. They collect data, observe teaching practices, and provide direct feedback to improve instructional quality."

Beyond instructional strategies, school culture plays a significant role in student success. A positive and inclusive school culture fosters motivation, respect, and a sense of belonging among students and teachers. "South Africa is a diverse country with rich cultural backgrounds. School leaders are in a unique position to shape environments where all students feel valued and supported," Sakeena emphasized.

Creating a strong school culture involves setting clear expectations, reinforcing positive behavior, and encouraging collaboration between educators and learners. By embedding these values into daily school operations, leaders can build institutions where students not only excel academically but also develop social and emotional skills essential for their future.

One of the most powerful tools in instructional leadership is data-driven decision-making. By systematically collecting and analyzing data, school leaders can pinpoint areas that need improvement and implement targeted interventions. Sakeena highlighted the importance of using data effectively: "When school leaders base their decisions on real evidence rather than assumptions, they can respond to challenges more effectively and track the progress of their initiatives over time."

As we look toward the future, ILI is intensifying its efforts to expand instructional leadership across South African schools. By 2025, they aim to reach even more school leaders and create a lasting impact on education. "Our focus remains on training and mentoring school principals, empowering them with the skills needed to navigate the ever-changing education landscape," Sakeena shared.

The work of the Instructional Leadership Institute is not just about improving test scores—it’s about fostering a new generation of school leaders who can create sustainable, long-term improvements in education. By shifting from a compliance-based model to one centered on instructional excellence, South Africa can move toward a future where every child receives high-quality education, regardless of their background.

If you're interested in learning more about the Instructional Leadership Institute and their work in improving education in South Africa, visit their website or reach out to explore how you can support their mission. 

Tel:
021 140 8494
Email:
admin@ili.org.za
Address:
4th Floor, Sunclare Building,
21 Dreyer Street, Claremont 7708, South Africa

Wrtitten by: Camille

Presenters: Khusi & Camille