The Erdiston Teachers Training College (ETTC) in Barbados has welcomed a new cohort of 30 students into its Postgraduate Diploma of Educational Leadership (DEL) Programme. The 18-month programme aims to equip participants with the essential skills and knowledge required for effective leadership roles within schools across the country.
Dr. Colin Cumberbatch, the Principal of the college, addressed the new cohort, emphasising the ETTC’s significant role in shaping the future of education in Barbados. He encouraged the students to embrace the learning opportunities at Erdiston and make the most of the resources available to them. Dr. Cumberbatch also emphasised the importance of keeping an open mind and being receptive to new ideas and perspectives.
“I implore you during the course of this programme, to keep an open mind, especially if you find that your ideals and beliefs are being challenged. Be mindful that our role as tutors at this college, as we go through the various courses in this programme will be to present you with current and relevant literature related to educational leadership.
“We will guide you through the changing views and various facets of educational leadership with the ultimate goal of eradicating misconceptions and inculcating in you an accurate understanding of the tenets that underpin sound educational leadership.”
Miss Deborah Hewitt, a graduate of the DEL programme, delivered a compelling speech to the new cohort, emphasising the need for meaningful and targeted change in educational institutions. She highlighted the value of self-awareness among leaders and stressed the importance of building positive relationships to drive positive change within their workplaces.
“Change is necessary, Change is a must. However, we do not change for the sake of changing. Change, when it happens, should be meaningful and targeted at an area of organisational functioning and in our case as educators, students’ outcomes, that are in need of improvement. Change must be positive. It must add value to whomever, whatever, and wherever it is occurring.”
Dr. Dawn Chesney-Bynoe, Assistant Programme Coordinator and Course Facilitator, emphasised the unique opportunity for personal growth and development in the programme. She urged the students to step out of their comfort zones, develop their personal leadership skills, and be open to making necessary changes for the benefit of students, teachers, and the nation as a whole.
The DEL programme, now in its 15thyear, places a strong focus on the internship component, providing students with the opportunity to implement positive changes based on the knowledge gained throughout the programme. Upon completion, participants will return to their respective institutions, where they are expected to work with assigned mentors and coaches to facilitate leadership within their schools during the 10-week internship period.