Course Catalogue

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Examination of leadership and management styles and the professional values which underpin practice.

3 full day inputs from 9am - 3.30pm

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Assessment for this course consists of three parts. Students are required to successfully complete at least two parts to attain an overall pass.

1. Presentation: Students should present (in pairs) the characteristics of a negotiated leadership style indicating situations when that style could be used beneficially in a childcare setting. Students should use literature including framework documents (one of which must be the Standard for Childhood Practice (SSSC, 2015)) to support the presentation. (equivalent 800 words). 40% weighting

2. 360° analysis: Students should complete a 3600 analysis form on themselves and distribute 360° analysis forms to colleagues/stakeholders (between 8-12) to be completed by them and returned anonymously. Students should submit collated results from all completed forms as tabulated data. 10% weighting

3. Essay: Analysing and evaluating (including through critical reflection) the 360° feedback, students should discuss their leadership strengths and development needs, blending reading and practice to demonstrate their understanding of leadership, management and professional values with a particular focus on leadership styles. Collated results from the 360° analysis will be blended into that discussion to indicate how two areas for their further leadership development (relating those to the Standard for Childhood Practice (SSSC, 2015) amongst other sources) could be developed. (1000 words, +/- 10%) 50% weighting

The course aims to:

develop knowledge and understanding of leadership and management theory and practice as it applies to Childhood Practice settings

engage learners in reflective learning by evaluating and applying experiential learning in professional contexts

At the end of the course, students should be able to:

discuss a broad range of leadership and management styles and their relevance to the student's Childhood Practice setting

show critical reflection and analysis of the feedback they receive as part of the 360° exercise

reflect on their performance as leaders and managers (or future leaders and managers) and identify areas for professional development based on the 360° exercise

plan for the development of their knowledge, skills and effectiveness as a leader and a manager both during and after the programme through making links to the Standard for Childhood Practice Revised (SSSC, 2015)

At least 66% attendance. Students must attend the equivalent of 2 full days of input out of 3.
Participation in formative assessment task.
Submission of summative assessment task.

Students must submit all parts of the assessment to complete the course. Students are expected to pass no less than 2 components of the assignment.