Employment Practice

Principal Appraisal

A professionally conducted, honest and independent appraisal is a Principal’s right and should be a very constructive exercise for the Principal and the school.

Recommended Components

• The appraisal should be based on the Principal’s job description, performance agreement and the professional standards.
• The Principal should complete a self-appraisal exercise including a written summary (form will be provided) and discussion with the appraiser
• The Principal should be interviewed early in the process, and be involved throughout and discuss feedback with the appraiser while it is at a draft stage
• The analysis of school documents should form part of the data collection
• Interviews should be conducted with key personnel (staff, Trustees, support staff). This can include group discussions with students of intermediate age
• The report should contain recommendations that the Principal and Board can use to develop the next performance agreement

There is no ‘one way’ or ‘formula’ for conducting the appraisal of Principals. We are happy to work with the Principal and Board to negotiate a process that will meet the needs of all the parties and be financially realistic.

Senior Leadership Appraisal

The Education Group is very experienced at carrying out appraisals of senior leaders in schools.

As with principals’ appraisals there is no ‘one way’ or ‘formula’ for conducting the appraisal of senior managers. We are happy to work with the Principal to negotiate a process that will meet the needs of all the parties and be financially realistic.

School Systems

An efficiently run school allows the people within it to engage in their primary tasks and to focus on important matters. From time to time it may be prudent for the school to carry out a review of its systems to ensure the systems are supportive of not detracting from the school’s overall operation. The Education Group is very experienced in carrying out staffing reviews including:
- Administration staff
- Support staff
- Teaching staff

Recruitment Advice And Support

The appointment of key staff is of critical importance to the effective development of any school. Ensuring the process is well managed and that any decision to appoint is made on full and sound knowledge of all applicants is essential. The Education Group has a wealth of experience assisting schools in the appointment of principals and senior managers. We pride ourselves on our thorough approach to the appointment of principals and are able to offer services which include assisting with:
- Setting up and agreeing to a process for appointment
- Writing advertisement
- Preparing the job application pack
- Shortlisting applicants
- Referee checks
- Interview questions
- Decision making process