Exploring experiences of principals in recruiting and retaining qualified educators in schools located in rural areas: a case study in King Cetshwayo Circuit.

Abstract

Some principals in schools located in rural areas are faced with a major challenge of recruiting

and retaining qualified educators. Hence education is mostly affected by these shortages. This study sought to explore the experiences of principals in recruiting and retaining qualified educators in schools located in the rural areas of King Cetshwayo District. Through a qualitative case study of qualified educators, this study overcomes this gap by exploring experiences that affect the recruitment and retention of qualified educators in rural settings in KwaZulu-Natal. This study is located within an interpretive paradigm. The data was generated in three primary schools where principals were purposively sampled as participants. Semi- structured interviews were administered. The objectives of the study were to explore the experiences of principals in recruiting qualified educators; to explore the experiences of principals in retaining qualified educators; and to understand how challenges experienced by principals in recruiting and retaining qualified educators in schools located in rural areas are mitigated. This study is underpinned under two theories: human relations and job embeddedness theory. The findings supported by the literature reviewed revealed that school principals are faced with the following challenges in recruiting and retaining qualified educators: geographic and social isolation, as well as poor working conditions; mitigation strategies included recruiting persons with rural backgrounds, providing mentoring platforms, and parental involvement. Few recommendations were made towards recruitment and retention of qualified educators located in rural areas .The first recommendation is directed to principals of primary schools located in rural areas. The second one is directed to the research community for further studies to be conducted in this area.

v ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

DUT Durban University of Technology

HoD Head of Department ICT

NCS Information Communication Technology National Curriculum Statement NCTAF National Commission on Teaching and America’s Future Outcome Based Education

PGCE Post Graduate Certificate in Education PL1 Post Level 1 PPM Post Provision Modern RDP

RNCS Reconstruction and Development Programme

Revised National Curriculum Statement SASMS South African School Management Systems SGB School Governing Body SMT School Management Team