A case of sexist descending attitudes towards a woman leader in a school and its effects on practices

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the negative perceptions towards female principals and itseffectsto practices in their schools. The intention was to find solutions to sexism in order to improve human relations among stakeholders so that learner performance could improve. The researcher used qualitative method to solicit the opinions of the principals, managers and educators in a case of the institution under study. Activities within the school were observed over six weeks. Findings show that tendencies such as tribal biases and sexism on female principals, influence teaching, learner performance and school performance. This would improve if; sexism and tribalism (which was found to be the source of sexism) were tackled decisively through firstly, the enforcement of implementing policies on inequality. Secondly, sourcing support fromlabour relations units within the Department of Basic Education District offices, to take swift action in eradicating sexism.

Keywords: Tribalism; Sexism; Women Leaders; Attitudes; Teaching practices