Perspectives of departmental heads in teaching english as a first additional language in secondary schools: A desktop study

This study explored the perspectives of heads of departments (HODs) in teaching English as a First Additional Language in secondary school. HODs are an integral part of school leadership. HODs are responsible for directing, maintaining, stimulating, and enhancing education and focusing on the instructional methods that produce high levels of knowledge. It showed that the HODs are responsible for leading teaching and learning in English FAL and assisting their staff members, particularly those who teach English, through mentorship, assessment, and accountability. Strategies that can be recommended for HODs to improve instructional leadership in teaching English FAL were also provided. The study suggested that there must be coherent and deliberate training and development for aspiring HODs. The leadership training and development of incumbent HODs should be based on the needs analysis of all HODs. Finally, HODs should lead teaching and learning in English FAL and assist their staff members, particularly those who teach English, through mentorship, assessment, and accountability.