Expectations of leadership in the changing context of Finnish early childhood education

Abstract

In this study, we explore the discourses and dilemmas embodying Finnish early childhood education leaders' expectations regarding their leadership. The data were collected in three focus group interviews with leaders in three municipalities. Four discourses were identified: the discourse of leadership in change, the discourse of leading an expert organisation towards a vision, the discourse of leadership style, and the discourse of leading the ECE mission. Contextual change is the framework in which expectations occur. Leaders experience many dilemmas affecting their leadership. The dilemmas focused on leading change in the administrative hierarchy, leading an expert organisation, approachability, and leading according to one's mission. Leaders themselves should identify the dilemmas. Strengthening leadership in a changing work context requires the identification of dilemmas.