School leadership that leads to a climate of care

This article presents findings from a case study that examined the educational leadership practices that successfully established a climate of care at school. Semi-structured in-depth interviews, observation, shadowing, focus groups and document analysis were used to collect data from the principal and school staff. Findings show that the personal beliefs of the principal in regard to care, and her perception that creating ‘a climate of care’ is an integral part of her managerial role, are expressed in the school’s vision. This vision is translated into action, and school objectives are assimilated using a number of key practices.