Challenges and strategies in managing small schools: A case study in Perak, Malaysia

Abstract

This research examined leadership practices in the unique context of primary schools with smaller levels of enrolment, specifically small schools in Malaysia. These are schools with an enrolment of up to 150 students that are primarily located in rural areas. This study explored the challenges encountered by experienced head teachers of such schools and, more importantly, identified the strategies head teachers employed to overcome these challenges. This was achieved through a qualitative analysis of interviews conducted with experienced head teachers from five small schools. The findings demonstrate that all five schools faced similar challenges: financial constraints, a dilapidated infrastructure, lack of human resources, and competence-related issues among teachers. All respondents overcame these challenges with creativity and passion. They found alternative methods with which to generate school funds, adopted the role of learner leaders by developing their information and communication technology skills, and served as role models for instructional leadership. The findings will enable policymakers and school leaders, particularly those involved in small schools, to provide quality education for every child. Nevertheless, further studies involving a greater number of respondents are needed to understand the complex challenges involved in managing small schools and the optimal ways of overcoming these.