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Foundations for School Leadership Program: Designing a Practice

Starting the Journey - Knowing Oneself in Order to Lead

The CAIS Foundations for School Leadership Program is the essential starting point for emerging leaders in independent schools. Grounded in CAIS’s three pillars of Strategic Direction, Education Program, and School Operations, this immersive four-day experience invites participants to explore leadership through reflection, collaboration, and practice.

Designed for aspiring and emerging leaders, Foundations helps participants build confidence, strengthen self-awareness, and develop a deeper understanding of leadership in independent schools.

Recent CAIS research highlights the growing need for motivated, diverse, and expert leadership to support school improvement and innovation. Through the cohort experience and guidance from experienced facilitators, participants gain practical leadership insights while developing a clearer understanding of their strengths, areas for growth, and leadership approach.

Update

Both Foundations cohorts are currently waitlist only.

Participants interested in leadership development this summer are encouraged to explore Summer Leadership Institute modules, which remain open for registration. Participants may register for stand-alone modules based on their role, interests, and leadership goals.

Program Dates and Locations

Dates

July 5–8, 2026

Locations

Halifax Grammar School
Halifax, NS

St. Michaels University School
Victoria, BC

Accommodations

Optional accommodations are available at Saint Mary’s University residences in Halifax and on campus at St. Michaels University School in Victoria. Please make your selection during registration.

Who Should Take This Program?

Aspiring Leaders

Faculty and staff beginning their leadership journey in independent schools.

Emerging Leaders

Individuals identified by their schools as having leadership potential.

Newly Appointed Leaders

Faculty and staff new to leadership roles seeking to build a strong foundation in independent school leadership.

Career Changers

Professionals transitioning into educational leadership from other sectors.

Open To

Faculty and staff from both CAIS and non-CAIS schools.

Pursuing the CAIS Diploma?

Completion of the Foundations program is required for participants pursuing the CAIS Diploma in Independent School Leadership.

Participants are also encouraged to explore individual Leadership Institute modules based on their interests and professional goals.

JOIN THE WAITLIST

Program Goals & Key Benefits

  • Build Understanding: Explore the CAIS Indicators of Effective Leadership Practice, including the competencies, knowledge, and actions associated with school leadership.
  • Develop Dispositions: Strengthen awareness of effective leadership traits and habits.
  • Intentional Practice: Design a leadership approach informed by personal and professional experience.
  • Pluralistic Mindset: Cultivate inclusive approaches within educational settings and beyond.
  • Professional Networking: Build meaningful connections with colleagues across the CAIS community.
  • Self-Awareness and Growth: Identify strengths and areas for continued development.
  • Expert Guidance: Learn alongside experienced facilitators and a supportive cohort experience.

Program Components

Lumina Spark Assessment

Pre-course profile assessment designed to support reflection and self-awareness.

Pre-Course Work

Preparation activities to help participants arrive ready to engage fully in the program experience.

Collaborative Learning

Individual, small group, and large group activities throughout the program.

Facilitators – Halifax

Facilitators – Victoria

For further information see CAIS Leadership Institute FAQ’s or contact Rachael Brownell-Swain, Manager, Professional Learning Programs at rbswain@cais.ca.
 
We are grateful to Halifax Grammar School and St. Michaels University School for supporting leadership development across the CAIS community.