Reflection – School Governor Reflections Resource

How to cover budget shortfalls

What was the issue addressed? There was an insufficient budget to deliver the curriculum and add value to students learning. This was difficult as staffing had to be cut to achieve a balanced budget and parents were then concerned when TA cover was reduced. What happened? We lobbied the Local Authority & Welsh Government. TheContinue reading “How to cover budget shortfalls”

Appointing a less than satisfactory subject specialist teacher

What was the issue addressed? We needed to recruit a subject teacher and had advertised three times. We had one applicant who following the interview we felt was not quite up to the standard we expected. The question we had to wrestle with was whether to appoint the teacher and place a not quite goodContinue reading “Appointing a less than satisfactory subject specialist teacher”

Reviewing and changing the evidence needed in a headteacher performance review

What was the issue addressed? The governing body revised the evidence required in a headteacher performance review and set new targets. This was difficult to do in one meeting with so much paperwork. Also problematic is that revising the guidelines each year means there is no opportunity to compare one year to next. What happened?Continue reading “Reviewing and changing the evidence needed in a headteacher performance review”

What happens when external organisations fall out on school premises

What was the issue addressed? We have had a dispute in the school with regard to two bodies providing out of school hours provision for the children. They both share the same premises. The managers of these bodies do notcooperate. This has resulted in an ongoing dispute involving legal issues which has had to beContinue reading “What happens when external organisations fall out on school premises”

Addressing health and safety issues relating to the school building

What was the issue addressed? At the primary school I have been asked to deal with a health and safety issue because of my background and my role as an LA councillor. There are problems with the brickwork on the building and scaffolding has been put on a large area of the school. This isContinue reading “Addressing health and safety issues relating to the school building”

Appointing a new headteacher without haste

What was the issue addressed? Recruitment of a new head teacher – this is on-going. This was prompted by the unexpected retirement of an experienced and successful head. The challenge is in making sure the process wasn’t rushed so we could make sure we recruited the right person. Additionally, the school is apparently seen asContinue reading “Appointing a new headteacher without haste”

The demands of the governor role

What was the issue addressed? I don’t think most governors are aware of the full range of their responsibilities and if I’m honest I don’t think they fulfil many of those responsibilities. From my perspective as Chair, (and most Chairs are there not because they are hugely enthusiastic to do the job but because theyContinue reading “The demands of the governor role”

Managing the turmoil of school merger

What was the issue addressed? We are in a slightly turbulent time as the school is newly amalgamated and we are currently awaiting completion of work building work. What happened? The teaching staff have all been changed around and this has been challenging for everyone but has definitely provided huge learning and training opportunities forContinue reading “Managing the turmoil of school merger”

Challenges of recruiting senior members of staff

What was the issue addressed? Sometimes there are very few applicants for more senior posts e.g. deputy head. It begs the question, why? Are senior positions seen as stressful, underpaid? It makes it quite difficult when there is a very small field to choose from. What happened? We had no choice but to interview aContinue reading “Challenges of recruiting senior members of staff”