wiserd_blog

Anonymous allegations against members of staff

What was the issue addressed? Anonymous letter allegedly from a member of staff making allegations against the headteacher and other members of staff, and questioning the running of the school. What happened? A governor, with relevant experience elected to investigate. I am not aware of any support or help received from other agencies. A meetingContinue reading “Anonymous allegations against members of staff”

Seeking advice dealing with a competency issues relating to the headteacher

What was the issue addressed? I had to deal with a competency issue related to the headteacher. It was difficult to find a neutral voice outside the LA to advise me. What happened? I used Governor Services Wales helpline and found it lifesaving. They offered confidential, discreet and unbiased advice. The officer was empowering toContinue reading “Seeking advice dealing with a competency issues relating to the headteacher”

Consequences of reduced budgets

What was the issue addressed? Each year budgets have been significantly reduced – including 6th form funding. Lack of longer term budgets (3 years was promised several years ago but never delivered). Lack of consistency of funding across authorities – funding formula differs in the counties. The year on year reductions in funding has resultedContinue reading “Consequences of reduced budgets”

Coping with a headteacher’s long-term sickness

What was the issue addressed? The headteacher took long term sick leave and there was generally an air of distrust and unhappiness amongst the staff at this time. The chair of governors mainly dealt with the day-to-day issues. I had only been a governor for about 6 months, and did not have a good graspContinue reading “Coping with a headteacher’s long-term sickness”

Dismissing a member of staff for incompetence

What was the issue addressed? We had to dismiss a member of staff because they could no longer fulfil their duties. The Local Authority HR department acted as an advocate for the staff member rather than an advisor to the GB. What happened? We had to take independent advice and then carefully work through theContinue reading “Dismissing a member of staff for incompetence”

Parent threatens another parent on school premises

What was the issue addressed? A parent verbally threatened another parent on school grounds at the end of the day. They alleged a bullying situation between two’s children. The threats were aggressive in nature. What happened? The school investigated the parent’s allegation of bullying and did not support the allegations. The school sought the adviceContinue reading “Parent threatens another parent on school premises”

Leadership and school culture questioned in school inspection reports

What was the issue addressed? The leadership, ethos and culture of the school has been questioned following an Estyn Inspection and independent report. Several stories have appeared in the press and a working party was formed to try and resolve certain issues in order to improve the situation. What happened? The working party met weeklyContinue reading “Leadership and school culture questioned in school inspection reports”

Dealing with a breakdown in trust from parents

What was the issue addressed? We had to rebuild relationships with the parent community due to the Category coding which was release earlier in the year, this has been a difficult period due to the drop in category. Some parents have also left the school due to the category coding which has impacted the schoolContinue reading “Dealing with a breakdown in trust from parents”

Understanding school budgets better

What was the issue addressed? Every year there is confusion as to what is and isn’t covered in budget headings by LMS (Local management of schools). This lack of knowledge makes budgetary management difficult. Too often governors are nodding things through. Even the leadership team of the school are lacking confidence and knowledge to challenge.Continue reading “Understanding school budgets better”

Disruption and difficult revelations due to new headteacher appointment

What was the issue addressed? Following the retirement of the Head Teacher, the popular Deputy was expected by staff, governors and parents to become the new Head. A much better candidate was successful and appointed. This caused some resentment among a small number of staff loyal to the Deputy, as well as disappointment and disillusionmentContinue reading “Disruption and difficult revelations due to new headteacher appointment”