Welcome to Module 1: Leading Alongside
“Over the years, leadership and the qualities it takes to be an effective leader have been colonized, so much so that many of us don’t even question the reality of what a good leader is.” (Greenway, 2023, para. 1)
In this first module of the course, you will explore some of the roles and responsibilities of leaders as well as some of the skills and dispositions required of on-the-floor leaders. This section examines the multifaceted roles, responsibilities, skills, and knowledge required when working directly with staff, children, and families in a leadership role in a childcare setting. Leadership and managerial roles in childcare are inherently complex and context-dependent, with responsibilities influenced by factors such as the size of the centre, its organizational structure, and governance model. These roles often demand a high degree of adaptability, as leaders may be required to navigate both administrative responsibilities and on-the-floor leadership. Balancing these demands necessitates intentional time management and the ability to seamlessly integrate operational oversight with daily interactions, ensuring the centre functions effectively while maintaining a supportive environment for children, families, and staff.
The estimated time to complete Module One based on content, activities, and assessments is ten hours (10 hours or 600 minutes)
ReferencesGreenway, J. (2023, May 7). Decolonize leadership: Qualities of a better leader. J. Greenway.
https://www.jengreenway.com/post/decolonizing-leadership-qualities-of-a-better-leader