CAIS Leadership Institute

What is the Diploma in Independent School Leadership?

The CAIS Diploma in Independent School Leadership is designed to prepare participants for senior leadership roles in independent schools, particularly for Headships, by providing courses in aspects of independent schools rarely experienced by teachers. It is expected that candidates will discuss participation with their Head of School.

The Award of the Diploma
The Diploma is awarded to those candidates who successfully complete the program within a five- year period.

How to Access the Modules
Modules are offered by CAIS at our annual summer Leadership Institute and individual modules may be scheduled at other times during the year. You may register for the Diploma modules by completing the registration form found at: www.cais.ca. CAIS will give recognition for a maximum of one module completed through other institutions (e.g. Universities, OISE, NAIS, etc.) provided equivalency is established. CAIS will provide documentation to other institutions with the intention that candidates may use the Diploma towards a graduate degree.

Keeping Current
CAIS continues to explore new possibilities for the Institute and additional modules have been added in Risk Management, Change Leadership and Women and Leadership. In the past years, CAIS has increased the flexibility in timing, with modules offered fall, spring and in the summer at locations across the nation.

The Structure of the Diploma – effective for new participants beginning September 2011

Five modules are required:

1. Academic Administration or Learning and Teaching

2. Accreditation and School Improvement

3. Finance

4. Governance

5. Advancement

Five additional modules are required, and Candidates may choose from any of the following*:

- Admissions   

- Brain Research                                                         

- Change Management    

- Coaching

- Communication

- Education Law                                                        

- Encouraging Dialogue: Mental Health and Our Schools

- Human Resources

- Leadership through Integrative Thinking

- Management

- Marketing and Communications                                                           

- Plant and Property Management                              

- Risk Management

- Women and Leadership

* Additional modules may be added.

New Addition in 2013

The Grid Program for current CAIS school Heads.  This development seminar will challenge, inform and guide our school leaders, by introducing them to the Grid Program.

New Additions in 2011

 "The Next Step" for current administrators that are positioned for future leadership roles.

"Money and Managing Change" for current CAIS school Heads based on challenges in Human Resources, Financial Sustainability, and Managing Change.