Course Outline

Based on the new Ontario College of Teachers guidelines, the CPCO Principal's Course has been designed by principals for teachers interested in becoming school administrators. Experienced staff offering a provincial perspective will prepare candidates to serve as leaders in both elementary and secondary schools. Content is explored through the lens of Catholic educational leadership.

The course will be delivered using a variety of instructional practices that honour the principles of adult learning: case studies, in-basket exercises, presentations, large and small group discussions and individual reading and reflection.

PQP PartI and IIis organized into 6 content areas. They follow the Ontario College of Teachers’ Principal’s Qualification Program Guidelines, 2009. The content is reflective of the six domains in the Leadership Framework for Catholic Principals and Vice-Principals found in Putting Ontario’s Leadership Framework Into Action.

The six leadership domains used to organize the content and guide the Leadership Practicum are:

• Catholic School Faith, Community and Culture
• Setting Directions
• Building Relationships and Developing People
• Developing the Organization
• Leading the Instructional Program
• Securing Accountability

The CPCO Principal's Qualification Program is delivered through two distinct parts and there are specific prerequisites for each. It is designed to prepare candidates for the principal's role in Ontario's Catholic and public schools. The program will prepare future school administrators to manage efficiently and lead effectively in contexts that are diverse, changing and complex.

Part I Requirements Part I consists of 65 hours of class time and a 35-hour distance education component. In addition, participants are expected to complete 25 hours of independent study. During Part I candidates are expected to complete a Leadership Practicum proposal.

Part II Requirements Part II consists of 65 hours of class time, 35-hour distance education component and an Emotional Intelligence Inventory. In addition, participants are expected to complete 25 hours of independent study. The PQP Practicum must be completed before receiving certification for Part II.

PQP Practicum

The Leadership Practicum is a required and integral component of the PQP. This required 60-hour practicum is to be conducted in a school setting and mentored by a practicing qualified principal or vice-principal. Under the OCT PQP Guidelines 2009, candidates must develop a Leadership Practicum Proposal before receiving Part I certification and successfully complete the Leadership Practicum experience before receiving Part II certification.