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The program supports the development of novice leaders in three key areas: organizational leadership – strategic planning, resource management, and shaping organizational culture; relational leadership – engaging the team, communication with families and the community; self-leadership – self-reflection, planning professional growth, and maintaining motivation.

The program helps new leaders settle into their role, stay motivated and develop leadership practices that support learning.

Program structure

Duration: The program runs for one academic year and consists of two parts: understanding the organization and planning its development.

Modules: The program includes monthly two-day seminars, with a total of eight seminars. Between seminars, participants complete practical development tasks involving collaboration with teachers, children and stakeholders. The program is primarily delivered in person, with virtual tools used as needed.

Mentoring: Each participant is matched with a mentor – an experienced leader in early childhood education – who supports them in planning and implementing their development goals, finding additional resources, interpreting data and achieving their objectives. Mentors meet regularly with mentees and take part in mentor seminars to ensure meaningful and effective guidance.

Triin Rattiste, program participant and head of Keila Miki Kindergarten:

“The most important part is the exchange of experiences. Many challenges in kindergartens are similar, but each institution is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Since we come from different parts of Estonia, we learn how others are doing, how someone has handled certain situations, and share our own experiences. I love discussions, analysis, and open conversations – they all bring new insights.”

Diana Kuntor, program mentor and head of Saue Midrimaa Kindergarten:

“The value and benefit of the program are mutual – it's about learning from each other. For a novice leader, it’s reassuring to have someone more experienced to turn to. It also builds confidence in handling complex situations, which are inevitable at the beginning. As a mentor, I learn to see things from a fresh perspective and realize where I might be stuck in old ways. It’s an exciting and eye-opening collaboration for both of us.”

The program is supported by the European Union through the European Social Fund and the Estonian state. The activity is titled "Initial and Continuing Education and Development of Education and Youth Sector Professionals."