The Organisational Reform Research Interest Group (RIG) hosted a seminar on Tuesday 21st April 2026 entitled, ‘Privatisation in Educational Settings. Leaders and Organisational Reform’.
During the event, we heard two presentations on the topic of Education Leadership and Organisational Reform:
Dr Mark Innes, Dr Louisa Dawes and Dr Elizabeth Gregory, University of Manchester
“In this presentation we problematise the privatisation of teacher development in England, resulting in organisational reform, and its impact. Drawing on our recently published article in the British Educational Research Journal titled, ‘Re-thinking teachers’ professional development: An analysis of National Professional Qualifications for school leaders in England’, we consider how the privatisation of leadership development has driven organisational changes in the sector. Using a framework devised by our colleague, Professor Linda Evans, we then explore the idea that the result has been leadership development for teachers which prioritises behavioural compliance over genuine growth, and discuss what we see as a ‘better way’ forwards.”
Dr Abdishakur Tarah, Nottingham Trent University
“This research examines how headteachers’ roles in low cost private schools (LCPS) differ from those in public schools, shaping the skills and leadership qualities each sector prioritises. Drawing on experiences from Somalia, I explore how LCPS headteachers work within greater organisational flexibility, tighter resource constraints, and heightened parental accountability. These conditions influence governance, financial management, and staffing, requiring leaders to balance educational outcomes with financial sustainability. Consequently, school owners often favour headteachers with strong business management skills over those with traditional educational career backgrounds.”
If you missed this event or would like a recap, you can now watch it in full below.
Special thanks to our Organisational Reform RIG Co-Convenors for organising the event, to our speakers for their thought-provoking presentations, and to everyone who joined us. We will see you again at the next one.
Abdishakur Tarah
Nottingham Institute of Education, Nottingham Trent University
Mark Innes
Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester
Louisa Dawes
Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester
Elizabeth Gregory
Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester
