Abstract:
The motivation for this study was to assess managerial threats that hinder the attainment of organisational goals in schools from the point of view of the school management teams. A qualitative study was conducted to assess the impact of managerial challenges on school performance. Data was collected through a standardised open-ended questionnaire using an in-depth interview technique and a focus group discussion. Two groups of respondents participated in the project. In-depth interviews were held with the first group of principals and a focus group discussion with the second group of deputy principals and departmental heads. The findings revealed that SMT members struggle with goal-setting and sometimes lack the innovation, capacity and understanding to set realistic and smart goals. There is a need for the empowerment of SMT’s to develop the requisite capacity to achieve at a higher level.