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This paper examines some of the key aspects of successful leadership practices for schools in challenging urban context. The research question for this paper is: “What are the key aspects of successful leadership practices used by headteachers in schools in a highly disadvantaged urban context?” The study is based on a qualitative case study approach with a comparative perspective. In the study a purposeful sampling approach was adopted. In order to answer the research question multiple methods of data collection were used. The research findings show three following development phases common to the studied schools and successful leadership practices corresponding to those phases: (i) Creation of reliable foundations: toward new qualities; (ii) Building a culture of concern and achievement; and (iii) Searching for synergy: stabilization and consolidation. Teachers’ leadership and building the educational partnerships are especially important practices within the phase: “Searching for synergy: stabilization and consolidation”.

Successful leadership practices, Phases of school development, Culture of school success, Teachers’ leadership, Educational partnership.

Madalińska-Michalak, J. (2014). Successful Leadership Practices for Schools in Challenging Urban Contexts: Case Studies. International Journal of Education for Social Justice (RIEJS), 3(2), 181-197.