One of the challenges facing the education system in South Attica is a lack of the culture of teaching and learning. 1t is this challenge that prompted this research. The research investigated how the principal, as an instructional leader~ can restore the culture of teaching and learning in previously disadvantaged schools. A qualitative approach was used and three schools were selected in the Sambandou Circuit ofthe Northern Province. The research results showed that there are general and management factors that contribute to a lack of the culture of teaching and learning. Management factors include, amongst others, 1ack of staff development programmes and discipline. The general factors, on the other hand, include, amongst others, poor physical conditions and infrastructure in schools. In conclusion, the research recommended, amongst others, that principals conduct staff development programmes and supervise the work of educators and learners.