Dissertation (MA Education)This study focused on identification of the training needs of heads of schools within the decentralized secondary education in Tanzania; Hai District in Tanzania was used as a case study. The study used qualitative and quantitative approaches in data collection and analysis procedures. Data were collected through interviews, questionnaires and documentary reviews. The sampled participants were thirty (30) teachers, five (5) heads of schools, one (1) district education officer and (1) district academic officer, making a total of 37 respondents. The findings of the study indicated that heads of schools need pedagogical skills, planning skills and leadership skills. On the other hand, training on financial skills, public relations, conceptual skills, technical and human skills were not much wanted by the heads of schools. If the heads of secondary schools were trained in these areas, school administration would have improved significantly. Based on these findings, it is concluded that heads of school within the decentralized secondary education lacked the necessary skills that are required for them to manage the schools effectively. The study recommends for the Government and other education stakeholders to work together in financing the training to heads of secondary schools on the suggested basic managerial skills. The Government needs to set a policy that indicates the type of training for the heads of secondary schools to improve the performance of schools in a decentralized system of education.