Imaginations Of An Educator: An Historic Account Of A Leader's Inspirations And Innovations

Education structures in Australia are historically grounded. Over the years gradual transformation has occurred in accordance with social and political influences and the courage for leaders to initiate change. In Victoria, the foresight of former educational leaders certainly influenced the direction of education by imagining alternatives that befitted the evolving social milieu. The imagination, inspiration and innovation of Lawrence (Lawrie) Shears' leadership in state education from 1961-1984 are the focus of this paper in which I look at his ability to imagine alternatives and carry them through. Rather than consider his contributions in terms of his achievements, viz the mass provision of secondary schooling, improved teacher education, diffusion of centralised administration and opportunities for community partnerships, I reflect on the qualities that enabled him to imagine and initiate change and how he inspired others to step beyond their immediate career aspirations and perceived abilities. Narratives shared by educators of a former era support this reflection on Lawrie Shears' ability to lead with imagination and to implement radical change during a time of social transformation. Contemplation of past events will give courage to today's educational leaders as they imagine alternatives and forge new directions.