Perceptions of school principals on the involvement of teacher unions in filling promotional posts in Maphundu Circuit, Umlazi District, KwaZulu-Natal.

Abstract

This study is based on investigating the principals’ perceptions on the involvement of teacher unions in filling promotional posts in schools within Maphundu Circuit, Umlazi District. The rationale behind it was to evaluate the teacher unions’ involvement in the selection processes of educators on the quality of teaching and learning in the above mentioned schools. The study sought to establish the significance of involving teacher unions in filling promotional posts by assessing their roles and responsibilities and how these are executed during selection processes with a view to identify any hindrances and strategies to enhance the quality of teaching and learning in schools. A qualitative research approach and a purposive method of sampling was used in this study. The research was conducted in Maphundu Circuit in Umlazi District which comprises 30 schools. A convenient sample of 10 school principals was selected to participate in the study and an interview schedule was used to collect primary data. The researcher managed to interview all 10 school principals which constituted a 100 percent response rate. The findings of the study revealed that, while the involvement of teacher unions in the filling of promotional posts is required to ensure procedural fairness and to safeguard the interests of educators, it posed serious challenges that could destroy the quality of teaching and learning in schools if left unattended. The study recommends that the Department of Basic Education regain control of the entire education system by introspectively revisiting its legislation, policies and procedures with a view to redefine the roles and responsibilities of the department, school governing bodies and teacher unions.