Maintaining the special character of a faith-based schooling system

Since the enactment of the Private Schools Conditional Integration Act in New Zealand in 1975, leadership in Catholic schools has become increasingly complex. Under the legislation Catholic schools are required to develop and maintain their Special Character. The Director of Religious Studies (DRS) has become the position with a key responsibility to ensure this “Special Character.” These challenges and demands make it necessary to reconceptualize this role. Drawing on historical insights pertaining to the DRS role this article provides insights into the progressive development of responsibilities and characteristics of the DRS that are vital to any reconceptualizing for contemporary leadership.