Registration is open for Virtual LIs
CAIS Leadership Institute
Supporting the learning and development of independent school leaders is a strategic priority for CAIS that supports school improvement and innovation. Recent CAIS research indicates a growing need for motivated, diverse, and expert leadership. The Leadership Praxis, is a framework of knowledge and competencies needed to be a successful independent school leader. They reflect the Indicators of Effective Practice highlighted in the refreshed 2021 CAIS Accreditation Standards. The Praxis has guided the structure of the Leadership Institute, ensuring that it is intentional, comprehensive and organized to meet the needs of aspiring leaders.
Benefits of the CAIS Leadership Institute Programs:
- Grounded in research and designed to develop leadership knowledge and competencies in areas aligned with school improvement (the indicators of effective practice in our Accreditation Standards);
- Provide a broad range of modules that meet the needs of aspiring leaders from both Education Program and School Operations functions;
- Includes formal and informal time for participants to network.
► For further information see CAIS Leadership Institute FAQ’s or contact Rachael Brownell-Swain, Manager, Professional Learning Programs at rbswain@cais.ca.
Foundations for School Leadership Program: Designing a Practice
Starting the Journey - Knowing Oneself in Order to Lead
Independent Schools leaders begin their leadership journey in a variety of different portfolios. The CAIS Foundations for School Leadership Program invites emerging leaders to explore leadership from multiple levels- conceptual and personal.
Independent School Leadership Diploma Program
Learning the Landscape for Leading in CAIS Independent Schools
Independent Schools are complex organizations. School leaders need to have a breadth of knowledge and competency across all areas in order to provide support and oversight for the entire School.
NexGen Leaders
CAIS is committed to supporting leadership growth for Canadian Independent Schools, particularly for leaders who are currently underrepresented in senior leadership roles. This NexGen Leaders training program uses a cohort-based, coaching model over six months to help a small group of up to 10 aspiring leaders learn more about the headship role, create a personal leadership plan, and to network with Heads, Board Chairs, and search firm consultants.
LeAD Program
An Advanced Diploma for Tomorrow’s Independent School Head
The advanced diploma in school leadership is for those leaders in CAIS schools who see themselves as future Heads of Schools. This program is the appropriate next step for individuals with a minimum of three years of school leadership experience and who have completed the CAIS Leadership Institute Diploma (or equivalent) and are ready to explore seniormost leadership roles in a school.
View Program
New Heads of School & Board Chair Orientation Programs
Transitioning into a CAIS Head or Chair role
Leadership learning does not end with the acceptance of leadership roles. Education trends are continuously emerging. Similarly, School contexts and priorities change as they evolve to meet the needs of their students in a changing world. Effective leaders need to continue reflecting, learning and building areas of knowledge and competency.
Heads' Retreat
Lifelong Learning for Leadership
The annual CAIS Head’s Retreat brings Heads of School together to reflect upon the School year and share experiences as leaders of risk, strategy, change and people. The Head’s Retreat provides an opportunity for collaboration, support and professional learning directly related to current opportunities and challenges.