HED4802
Assignment 4
DUE 25 August 2025
, Question 1.1
Who should be responsible for providing curriculum leadership within the school
context? What are the specific responsibilities and key actions that should be
associated with effective curriculum leadership for your subject(s) and grade(s)?
[15 Marks]
In the context of South African schools, curriculum leadership is essential for ensuring
quality teaching and learning. While curriculum leadership should ideally be a
collaborative effort, the primary responsibility rests with the school leadership
team, which includes the Principal, Deputy Principal, Heads of Departments
(HODs), subject heads, and experienced teachers who have both pedagogical and
content knowledge expertise.
Key Stakeholders and Their Roles
1. Principal and Deputy Principal
These senior leaders are responsible for setting the tone for curriculum
implementation. They oversee the broader vision of the school and ensure that
curriculum delivery aligns with departmental policies. They provide structural
support, allocate resources, and facilitate professional development
opportunities.
2. Heads of Departments (HODs)
HODs are the immediate curriculum leaders in subject-specific areas. They guide
and support educators, manage subject meetings, ensure compliance with
CAPS, and coordinate assessment activities. For example, an HOD for the
Intermediate Phase Natural Sciences subject would help teachers integrate
scientific inquiry and practical work into their lesson plans.
3. Senior Teachers or Subject Coordinators
In cases where a school lacks dedicated HODs, experienced teachers or subject
heads may assume leadership roles. They may mentor junior teachers, share
instructional resources, and lead reflective practice.
Assignment 4
DUE 25 August 2025
, Question 1.1
Who should be responsible for providing curriculum leadership within the school
context? What are the specific responsibilities and key actions that should be
associated with effective curriculum leadership for your subject(s) and grade(s)?
[15 Marks]
In the context of South African schools, curriculum leadership is essential for ensuring
quality teaching and learning. While curriculum leadership should ideally be a
collaborative effort, the primary responsibility rests with the school leadership
team, which includes the Principal, Deputy Principal, Heads of Departments
(HODs), subject heads, and experienced teachers who have both pedagogical and
content knowledge expertise.
Key Stakeholders and Their Roles
1. Principal and Deputy Principal
These senior leaders are responsible for setting the tone for curriculum
implementation. They oversee the broader vision of the school and ensure that
curriculum delivery aligns with departmental policies. They provide structural
support, allocate resources, and facilitate professional development
opportunities.
2. Heads of Departments (HODs)
HODs are the immediate curriculum leaders in subject-specific areas. They guide
and support educators, manage subject meetings, ensure compliance with
CAPS, and coordinate assessment activities. For example, an HOD for the
Intermediate Phase Natural Sciences subject would help teachers integrate
scientific inquiry and practical work into their lesson plans.
3. Senior Teachers or Subject Coordinators
In cases where a school lacks dedicated HODs, experienced teachers or subject
heads may assume leadership roles. They may mentor junior teachers, share
instructional resources, and lead reflective practice.
