Exploring Spirituality in the Teacher-Leadership Role of Mentoring Through Collaborative Action Research

Abstract

This paper reports on a collaborative action research project exploring spirituality in teacher-leadership through the life-world of a New Zealand Christian school principal. The participant focused on the teacher-leadership role of mentoring colleagues towards more effective teaching practices and improvement in the Christian culture of the school community. The findings show that mentoring is a long term relational commitment that remains faithful to the Christian vision and values of the school. By modelling humility, compassion and a godly resolve to encourage quality Christian education, the principal witnessed transformation in teachers’ practice and the culture of the learning community.