I work with a number of teachers and school leaders based in different parts of the world. One issue they raise is how far Western ideas about leadership apply in their place of work. For example, where there is a strong emphasis on power distance, distributed leadership and collegiality take on a different significance.

It's also the case that often ideas on leadership that arise in one type of organisation are applied uncritically to others. Many ideas on leadership in education appear to have come from the world of business.

It seems to me therefore that we should always regard leadership theories as hypotheses to be tested out in a particular context rather than accept them at face value.

I also wonder if there are any leadership theories developed in business that have been adopted in the world of education that just do not make any sense at all.

Comments welcome.

I very much warm to the idea that leadership theories are hypotheses to be tested in new situations (rather than to be transposed without thought). I learnt very early on that what works in one place doesn't necessarily in the next. This is an important message today - as £200K Superheadsships are offered to "Grammar School Heads" as they take on "Failing Comprehensives". What a dangerous "business" model i.e. 1. Pay more and you'll get better. 2. A successful Chef will be a successful Plumber.