We determined the impact of transformational styles of leadership on human resource management in primary schools. A transformational leadership model was employed to conduct this investigation. The model is underpinned by both theory and practice as well as with the qualitative research conducted for this study. Using semi-structured interviews, ten educators in two primary schools were interviewed. The findings indicated a movement towards an integrated or overarching use of leadership styles in the quest for transformational leadership as is evident in the model. Of note is that the principal still has, as the leader of the school, a vital role to play in changing past autocratic (transactional) structures to a more democratic, transformational type of leadership. The study revealed further that educators, including principals, must realise just how invaluable the human resources at a school are and that the support and commitment of these resources is vital to organisational success.