
Independent School Leadership Diploma Program
Program Overview
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, a framework of knowledge and competencies needed to be a successful independent school leader, reflects the Indicators of Effective Practice highlighted in the 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.
- Modules typically have 10 hours of programming.
- Informal network times are built into the synchronous schedule time.
- Modules are open to faculty and staff from CAIS and non-CAIS schools.
- Participants who complete 10 modules in the CAIS Diploma Program will earn the CAIS Diploma in Independent School Leadership. Please note that completion of the CAIS Foundations for School Leadership Program: Designing a Practice is a required pre-requisite for new participants.
- Typical capacity for modules is 20-25 participants and depends upon each module.
- For further information see CAIS Leadership Institute FAQ’s or contact Rachael Brownell Swain at rbswain@cais.ca
Program GOALS
The overarching goals are to:
- Establish a foundation of leadership knowledge and skills across three areas of school leadership (Education Program, School Operations and Strategies and Structures) that takes into account the participants’ personal interests and professional experience.
- Cultivate and integrate a pluralistic lens or mindset within the educational setting and beyond.
- Develop a network of professional colleagues.
Fall (LI) Modules - Virtual
Dates: November 18-20, 2025
Modules offered include:
- Human Resources
- Technology Leadership in Independent Schools: Innovation, AI, and IT Strategy (NEW!)
- Legal Considerations in Education (NEW!)
- Women in Leadership
Winter (LI) Modules - Virtual
Dates: February 10-12, 2026
Modules offered include:
- Enrolment Management
- Finance
- Pluralism I
Spring (LI) Modules - Virtual
Dates: April 28-30, 2026
Modules offered include:
- Education Program Foundations
- Faculty & Staff Culture
- Governance
- Leading School Transformation through Accreditation
Summer (LI) Modules - In-Person
Dates: July 5-9, 2026
Location: Halifax Grammar School
More details to be announced soon!
