Neoliberalism in the kindergarten service: Dilemmas, tensions and constraints

Abstract

Since 1988, the kindergarten service in New Zealand has been involved in major restructuring changes. Senior teachers' in the service, who are mostly women, carry responsibilities for professional leadership. This paper, which reports on an exploratory qualitative study, investigates dilemmas, tensions and constraints for them in enacting their leadership in an increasingly neoliberal environment. It also explores their coping strategies.