The University of Manchester is addressing the increasing demand for educator leadership in Singapore through its Master of Arts in Educational Leadership in Practice (ELiP). This part-time, blended-learning programme is designed for teachers, trainers, school leaders, and academic staff who are taking on responsibilities beyond traditional teaching roles.
As Singapore emphasises lifelong learning and educator development, professionals are expected to engage in curriculum planning, institutional change, and policy implementation. The ELiP programme, delivered by the Manchester Institute of Education, supports educators in navigating these expanded roles. Dr Paul Armstrong, Programme Director, highlighted that the course helps educators contribute beyond immediate teaching duties, including leading teams and responding to policy changes.
The programme combines online study with short residential conferences in Singapore and Hong Kong, allowing participants to continue full-time work whilst learning alongside peers from diverse educational systems. Graduates like Jon Pavey, Deputy Head of Pastoral at Tanglin Trust School, have found the programme invaluable for reflecting on leadership within educational settings. Stephanie Chai, Cluster Head of a major pre-school group, noted the benefit of learning from professionals across the sector, particularly in understanding how policy and inclusion influence school leadership.
As Singapore’s educational landscape evolves, the ELiP programme aims to prepare educators for roles that require leadership, change management, and policy translation within their institutions. More information on the programme is available on the University of Manchester’s website.
