Professional competence of the leadership of pedagogical (teachers training) vocational schools

Abstract

Senior officers in education institutions are tasked not only with day-to-day management, but also with implementing innovative approaches, developing the pedagogical skills of teachers, and creating a high-quality educational environment. The role of leadership is becoming critical in the context of constantly changing international educational standards and their growing importance. The article focuses on the influence of professional competences of the leadership of pedagogical vocational schools on the quality of education. We present the results of a theoretical and empirical analysis of professional competences in senior officers of pedagogical vocational schools. We investigate the role of professional competences of senior officers in the educational process and in the interaction with teachers and students. We used questionnaires to collect quantitative data, while the qualitative part of the study involved indepth interviews and observations of senior officers’ work. The sample included directors of pedagogical vocational schools and their deputies for educational work (N=17). The results showed a high level of development of strategic and communicative skills in senior officers, but revealed shortcomings in terms of implementation of innovative technologies and approaches. The study highlights the importance of a systematic approach to the development of professional competencies in senior officers in order to improve the educational process. We put forward practical recommendations to support the professional development of senior officers of pedagogical vocational schools. Improved senior officers training can significantly improve the quality of education, which in turn will have a positive impact on the country’s socio-economic development. The results of the study can inform the strategies and improve the practices of education institutions, which is expected to lead to positive changes not only in education but also in the wider socioeconomic context. We highlight the need to develop new policies and practical solutions for improving the competence of senior officers, which will make it possible to adapt education institutions to modern challenges and requirements.