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, inviting participants to explore leadership through CAIS's three pillars: Strategic Direction, Education Program, and School Operations. This comprehensive four-day program, offered annually during the summer, is designed to build a strong foundation for future leaders in independent schools.

Recent CAIS research highlights the growing need for motivated, diverse, and expert leadership to support school improvement and innovation. With support from expert facilitators and the cohort experience, participants gain a deeper sense of their strengths and areas for growth, building both confidence and understanding of independent school leadership. The program provides aspiring leaders with knowledge of leadership competencies and actions, meeting them where they are in their careers and helping them to develop the skills necessary for effective school leadership.

PROGRAM DATES AND LOCATIONS

Dates: July 5 to 8, 2026

Update: Victoria (SMUS) session is now waitlist only.

Due to high demand, the Foundations for School Leadership Program: Designing a Practice will be offered on both coasts. Halifax Grammar School (Halifax, NS) and St. Michaels University School (Victoria, BC) will each host a cohort, making the program more accessible for participants. Thank you to Halifax Grammar School and SMUS for generously opening their campuses.

Accommodations are available at St. Mary’s University Residences in Halifax and on campus at St. Michael’s University School. Both options offer comfortable spaces that support connection, focus, and the overall Foundations experience. Please make your selection on the registration form.

The Foundations program fills quickly and typically has a waitlist, so early registration is strongly encouraged.

Who Should Take This Program?

Aspiring Leaders: Individuals at the beginning of their leadership journey in independent schools.
Recognized Potential Leaders: Those identified by their schools as having leadership potential.
Newly Appointed Leaders: Faculty and staff new to leadership roles seeking to build a strong foundation.
Career Changers: Professionals transitioning into educational leadership from other fields.
Open to: Faculty and staff from both CAIS and non-CAIS schools.

Important!: Completion of the Foundations program is mandatory for pursuing the CAIS Diploma in Independent School Leadership. While the Foundations program is essential for those aiming to complete the CAIS Diploma, participants are encouraged to take individual Leadership Institute Diploma Modules of interest. This allows for personalized professional development.

REGISTER HERE

Program Goals & Key Benefits

Build Understanding: Learn CAIS Indicators of Effective Leadership Practice, including the competencies, knowledge, and actions associated with school leadership.
Develop Dispositions: Understand the traits of effective leaders.
Intentional Practice: Design a leadership practice based on personal and professional experiences.
Pluralistic Mindset: Cultivate an inclusive approach within educational settings and beyond.
Professional Networking: Develop a network of professional colleagues.
Self-Awareness and Growth: Identify strengths and areas for growth, enhancing confidence and leadership understanding.
Expert Guidance: Benefit from experienced facilitators and a supportive cohort experience.