The International role of the NCSL: Tourist, colporteur or confrere?

This article addresses the international positioning and role of the National College for School Leadership (NCSL). The article argues that the college stands as an initiator, exporter, importer and disseminator of leadership research and practice and that the role it adopts in regard to these will determine its international influence. The first part of the article discusses the uniqueness of the college and the possible pathways along which its influence could expand. It acknowledges that in building its sphere of influence the college faces a context of unpredictability and uncertainty. The second part of the article focuses specifically on the international role of the NCSL and suggests that from among a range of alternatives, the college would be wise to adopt a confrere role, that is, genuinely mutual dialogue and co-operative learning relationship with researchers and partners overseas. The third part of the article recognizes the associated difficulties and complexities of adopting such a confrere role. It goes on to suggest that the likely benefits of such an approach would not only create a rich international learning environment for policy-makers and school leaders alike, but would also benefit the growing number of multicultural schools and communities in the UK. Copyright © 2004 BELMAS.