Abstract
This paper discusses findings from a mixed-methods research study that sought to explore and identify
factors promoting excellence in schools in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The sample consisted of 30
(12.14%) purposively selected principals/headmasters of schools from the 247 (27 public and 220 private)
ďoLJs’ high sĐhools of Peshaǁar CitLJ, ǁhiĐh iŶĐluded 26 priŶĐipals froŵ priǀate aŶd 4 froŵ puďliĐ sĐhools
respectively. From the 30 schools, a sample of 600 students (6%) was purposively selected, of which 80
students were from the 4 public schools and 520 students were from the 26 private schools. Two separate
opinionnaires were used to gather data from principals and students. The opinionnaires contained
statements structured around eliciting responses from principals and students about factors that
ĐoŶtriďuted to sĐhool edžĐelleŶĐe. The ŵajor fiŶdiŶg is that priŶĐipals’ perĐeptioŶs are aligŶed ǁith the
stateŵeŶts aŶd those faĐtors aŶd proĐesses that proŵote edžĐelleŶĐe iŶ sĐhool. StudeŶts’ edžpeĐtatioŶs ǁere
that they wanted schools to support learning, and producing a caring and nurturing environment aimed at
their all-round development.