What school leaders are doing to support a culture of character: an exploratory study with preschools in Singapore

This article discusses an exploratory study, reporting the practices of five principals leading character development in early childhood centres in Singapore. Acknowledging variations in leadership style, the pooled focus group findings show the common denominator is the principals’ paradigm of authentic leadership informing a service orientated culture. Insights into the practices of these principals identify meaningful ways of building and sustaining a shared vision of respect, connectedness, cohesiveness, trust, positive morale, care and courtesy built on the principles of integrity, trust, hope and love. Findings identify the contribution of five visionary principals working with character development in early education spaces in Singapore preschools