There have been considerable studies undertaken around leadership in general, and school principal leadership specifically that spans over many decades. However, there is a gap in the literature that examines the principal leadership in religious learning institutions, from the perspective of the individuals who lead these institutions. Principal leadership is essential to the success of any school and has been considered by scholars to be second only to classroom instructions. The complexities of school principal leadership mandates much further research into this very important field so as to provide insights into the leadership best practices needed for school success and academic exceptional learning. Further, the need for continuous learning strengthens the performance delivery of school principals as they undertake and navigate the complexities involved in school leadership. While there are many studies that examine the broad area of leadership conducted over many decades, the study of school principal leadership is still in its infancy and focus on school principal leadership in religious learning institutions is even less researched. This study sought to examine the leadership best practices and need for continuous learning of elementary school principals in religious learning institutions, from the perspectives of principals who lead these schools. The results of the study reveal that principal's leadership is important to school success and there are many important characteristics of leadership that contribute to principal success. Among these leadership characteristics are ethics, morale, mentorship to teachers who are part of the team, and understanding the vision of the institution in other to implement strategies that would lead to its success. Central to the successful undertaking of school leadership role, is the need for school principals to improve the performance as leaders through continuous learning. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]