Termly Governor Bulletin ESSENTIAL READING FOR CHAIRS, HEADS AND CLERKS In your Term 3 2012/13 Bulletin‌No. 82 ACTION ITEMS (items and appendices on PINK paper) Item 1.
Title Governing Body Essentials
Action by date On going
Attention Chair, Head, Clerk
2.
Pay Policy
ASAP
Chair of Staffing, Head
3.
Supporting Children with challenging behaviour in primary schools
22 January/18 February 2013
All Governors
CONSULTATION ITEMS (items and appendices on GREEN paper) None INFORMATION & GUIDANCE ITEMS (items and appendices on YELLOW paper) Item
5. 6. 7.
Title Child Protection Issues: dealing with allegations against teachers and other staff Disclosure and Barring Scheme Schools to be given greater flexibility to set teachers pay Headteacher and Governing Body Expectations
8.
Governors and Staff Performance
9.
OFSTED; being ready when the inspector calls
10.
Guidance on dealing with grievances against the Headteacher
11. 12.
Trading with Schools Information Packs for Governors
13.
Academies Financial Handbook, highlighting Financial Control Process
4.
Attention Chair of Staffing, Head, Safeguarding Governor Chair of Staffing, Head Chair of Staffing, Head All Governors Staffing Committee, Head Chair, Head Chair, Chair of Staffing, Head Chair of Finance All Governors, Clerk Academy Chair, Chair of Finance, Principal and Clerk
TRAINING AND CONFERENCE ITEMS (items and appendices on BLUE paper) Item 14.
Title Strategic Briefing
Attention All Governors
15.
Governors Training: Are your Governors keeping up to date?
All Governors
16.
Support Networks for Governors Training and Development Opportunity for Chairs and Aspiring Chairs
All Governors Chairs and Aspiring Chairs
17.
INDEX OF KEY ITEMS IN GDS PUBLICATIONS; SEE BACK PAGES
NB. Please could clerks ensure that those governors mentioned as the target audience, for example finance committee members, health and safety governor, receive a copy of that item.
Governor Development Service Bristol Education Centre, Sheridan Road, Horfield, Bristol, BS7 0PU Tel: 0117 903 1396 Email: gds@bristol.gov.uk THIS DOCUMENT IS AVAILABLE ON LINE AT: Website: http://www.bristol.gov.uk/page/governors
1
NEED TO ACCESS SOMETHING ON THE CYPS INTRANET? Wherever possible, we ensure that CYPS documents etc. referred to in this Bulletin are available on the Bristol City Council internet site. However, occasionally this is not appropriate and documents are only available on the BCC intranet site. At present it is not possible for governors to be given access to the intranet, but we are hoping this can be arranged for the future. In the meantime, please contact GDS if you are unable to find the document you need and we will track it down and email it to you. OTHER CYPS NEWSLETTERS YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN; In our Bulletin we endeavour to bring together all the information governors need from a range of sources within Children and Young Peoples Services. However other teams also produce regular Newsletter which might be of interest to you. They can be found on the CYPS website. Links to back issues are given below; • Human Resources http://www.bristol.gov.uk/page/hr • Education of Children In Care http://www.bristol.gov.uk/page/news-events-and-training • Special Educational Needs http://www.bristol.gov.uk/page/senco-newsletters
2
ACTION ITEMS 1. Governing Body Essentials
Attn: Chair, Head, Clerk
For each term, we promote the essential items that should be included on all governing body agendas through circulation of ‘Governing Body Essentials’ three times a year. The agenda essentials for Terms 3 and 4 are attached at APPENDIX 1. Contact: Governor Development Service, 0117 903 1396: GDS@bristol.gov.uk Attn: Chair of Staffing, Head 2. Pay Policy Following changes to the School Teachers Pay and Conditions Document 2012 a revised Model Pay Policy has been produced for governing bodies to adopt. The Model Pay Policy can be found on the Bristol CC Intranet (The Source) via your school at: http://intranet.bcc.lan/ccm/content/articles/transformation/shared-transactional-services/stshr/schools/pol-and-proc/legally-required/schools-pay-policy---revisions-for-2010.en An electronic copy is attached with the email circulation of this Bulletin. Attn: All Governors 3. Supporting children with challenging behaviour in primary schools In Bristol we, like many other authorities, are experiencing an increasing incidence of children who present very challenging and often very complex behaviours in our primary schools, particularly in KS1. Schools may find it very difficult and often stressful to meet their needs and keep them and others safe. This can be distressing for families and place considerable pressures on whole school systems and resources. There are no easy answers. Sometimes, schools can feel alone in managing difficult issues. However, we are aware that there is effective practice and experience within the system. To this end, two events have been organised to which Governors are cordially invited. Think Tank: interested parties from schools and settings as well a cross section of services and teams from CYPS and external agencies have been invited to carry out a problem solving and solution focused approach to consider the issues, do some “thinking” and identify some shared ways forward. The first Think Tank session will take place on Tuesday 22nd January at Bristol Education Centre (room 17) from 1.00pm to 4.00pm. A second Think Tank session is booked on 18th February from 1.00pm to 4.00pm at Bristol Education Centre (room 17) for interested parties unable to attend the January date. 3
Nurture Group Awareness We are also pleased to invite you to a Nurture Group Awareness event in conjunction with the Nurture Group Network. This event will introduce you to the philosophy and practice of nurture groups and the research underpinning this approach. Nurture Groups are being established in all phases to meet the needs of some children and young people with challenging and often complex behaviours. Date: Thursday February 7 2013 Venue: Bridge Learning Campus Professional Development Centre, Teyfant Road, Hartcliffe BS13 0RF Cost: ÂŁ30 per place to cover speaker and hire charge If you are interested in attending either or both of above events, then please select the date and event you wish to attend and register an expression of interest to Heather Clapp, Inclusion Consultant, heather.clapp@bristol.gov.uk . Further details and your place will be confirmed by e mail. Spaces are restricted so please reserve your place as soon as possible.
4
Appendix 1
Governing Body Essentials Terms 3&4 2012/13 Full Governing Body Meeting: EVERY TERM Headteacher Report including: Items which should be reported on 3 times a year: 9 progress being made by pupils in each year group in comparison with targets, age related expectations, (e.g. in Terms 2, 4 and 6) 9 progress on school improvement priorities 9 attendance and behaviour/exclusion data including trends, year group analysis etc 9 outcomes from self-evaluation activities and LA Core Visits and/or Progress Reviews 9 any changes in pupil numbers/inward or outward mobility 9 reporting any incidents of bullying or harassment. Items which should be included at least once a year: 9 end of Key Stage attainment data broken down by subjects, gender, ethnicity and other groups relevant to the school e.g. Children in Care, Free School Meals, EAL, SEN and compared with targets, FFT estimates, 3 or 5 year trends etc 9 end of Key Stage progress data – overall and broken down by subjects and groups 9 summary of end of year attainment and progress data for other year groups, again broken down by subjects and groups. Items which may occur on an occasional basis: 9 staff changes, vacancies 9 staff professional development 9 new national or local requirements of schools 9 admissions issues 9 curriculum developments, events.
Other Reports o Committees (including budget monitoring) – matters arising for action/decision At FGB or relevant committee: o Named governors (Child Protection, SEN, Health & Safety/Safeguarding, Children in Care) o Governors following monitoring visits to school or attendance at training/briefings o Clerk (including progress on filling any vacancies, forthcoming vacancies, correspondence and review of governor training needs). School Policies o Review School Policies in line with annual rolling programme (at either FGB or Committee level as appropriate/set out in terms of reference). Reminder Circulate all papers 7 days in advance so that governors have time to prepare, check the register of governors pecuniary/business interests is up to date and make sure meetings are quorate before you begin.
KEY GOVERNING BODY AGENDA ITEMS TERMS 3 & 4: for committees or full governing body Strategic School Improvement/Development Items LA Core Visit or Progress Review(s) Standards
Outcomes - implications for Governors’ monitoring and evaluation activities (e.g. focussed visits, learning walks, subject leader presentations) o Review standards in light of RAISEonline and internal tracking data, with particular focus on accelerating the progress of under achieving groups. (if not considered Term 2) 5
Priorities for School Improvement Governors’ monitoring and evaluation Performance Management Finance and staffing
o Agree targeted provision to address any identified areas of underachievement Mid-year review of progress towards priorities for and agreement on process for formulating School Improvement Plan for next year o Report outcomes from governors’ Monitoring & Evaluation of progress towards improvement priorities. o Parent/pupil/other stakeholder questionnaires; distribution, analysis, resultant planning o Receive report from Headteacher on implementation of Performance Management policy (if Term 2 deadline not met) o Note the agreed performance objectives for the Headteacher a how these relate to the School Improvement Plan. o Review outturn statement o Review and recommend staffing structure for following year in order to allow time for recruitment or “management of change� process if necessary. o Budget monitoring and planning o Complete School Financial Value Standard
Reports and Updates Staffing Update o Update on any staff changes o Confirmation of staffing arrangements including provision for Planning, Preparation and Assessment time, Dedicated Headship Time and cover arrangements. o Review deployment of staff and resources to support the needs of underachieving pupils Procedural Governing Body Items Premises, Health o Site safety/security monitoring/risk assessments and safety o Monitor rolling programme of premises maintenance and improvement of school environment. Accountability o Update performance and governor related information provided on the school website (in line with statutory requirements, including required information on Pupil Premium allocation and expenditure) o Publish Annual Report to Parents – Nursery schools only o Complete Annual Safeguarding Audit and submit to LA (if December 2012 deadline not met) Equalities
o Ensure published equalities objectives and information which demonstrates compliance with the Public Sector Equality Duty is up to date.
Contact the Bristol Governor Development Service Bristol Education Centre, Sheridan Road, Horfield, BS7 0PU Tel 0117 903 1396 Email gds@bristol.gov.uk Website: http://www.bristol.gov.uk/page/governors
6
INFORMATION AND GUIDANCE ITEMS Attn: Chair of Staffing, Head, Safeguarding Governor 4. Child Protection Issues: dealing with allegations against teachers and other staff From1 October 2012 new statutory DfE guidance was introduced for schools when dealing with allegations against teachers and other staff: http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/guidanceandadvice/g0076914/dealing-withallegations-of-abuse The key points of the guidance are: • •
• •
•
If an allegation is made against a teacher the quick resolution of that allegation should be a clear priority to the benefit of all concerned. At any stage of consideration or investigation, all necessary delays should be eradicated. In response to an allegation staff suspension should not be the default option. An individual should only be suspended if there is no reasonable alternative. If suspension is deemed appropriate, the reasons and justification should be recoded by the school and the individual notified of the reasons. Allegations that are found to be malicious should be removed from personnel records and any that are not substantiated, are unfounded or malicious should not be referred to in employer references. Pupils that are found to have made malicious allegations are likely to have breached school behaviour policies. The school should therefore consider whether to apply an appropriate sanction, which could include temporary or permanent exclusion (as well as referral to the police if there are grounds for believing a criminal offence may have been committed). All schools and FE colleges should have procedures for dealing with allegations. The procedures should make it clear that all allegations should be reported straight away, normally to the headteacher, principal or proprietor if it is an independent school. The procedures should also identify the person, often the chair of governors, to whom reports should be made in the absence of the headteacher or principal, or in cases where the headteacher or principal themselves are the subject of the allegation or concern. Procedures should also include contact details for the local authority designated officer (LADO) responsible for providing advice and monitoring cases.
Following the introduction of this guidance HR have produced for headteachers and governors: i)
Additional advice regarding suspensions
The advice covers what to consider, who can suspend, what should happen when the decision to suspend is made, actions necessary during the suspension and lifting the suspension. This guidance can be found at: http://intranet.bcc.lan/ccm/content/articles/transformation/shared-transactionalservices/sts-hr/schools/guidance-and-faqs/advice-when-considering-suspensionschools.en 7
ii)
A template for an investigation report involving a child protection issue
The template draws attention for the requirement of the investigating officers to make a clear judgement against each allegation using the required definitions of: a) Substantiated; there is sufficient identifiable evidence to prove the allegation b) False; there is sufficient evidence to disprove the allegation c) Malicious; there is clear evidence to prove that there has been a deliberate act to deceive and the allegation is entirely false; d) Unfounded; there is no evidence or proper basis which support the allegation being made. e) Unsubstantiated; there is insufficient evidence to prove or disprove the allegation. The term, therefore, does not imply guilt or innocence. This template can be found at: http://intranet.bcc.lan/ccm/content/articles/transformation/shared-transactionalservices/sts-hr/schools/pol-and-proc/negotiated/investigation-report-schoolstemplate.en If you do not have access to the Bristol City Council intranet (The Source), the guidance and template are available on request from HR STS Tel 0117 3521400 5. Disclosure and Barring Scheme
Attn: Attn: Chair of Staffing, Head
The 1 December 2012 saw the launch of the Disclosure and Barring Scheme (DBS), a merger between the Criminal Records Bureau and the Independent Safeguarding Authority. The intention is to ensure that the process is clearer and simpler for those using the scheme. Changes to the current system of criminal record checks and barring include: • • • •
Introducing portable criminal records check to eliminate many unnecessary repeat checks, a long with an online updating service to make it easier for employers to assess individuals; Introducing a single criminal records certificate which will only be sent to the applicant; Introducing, for the first time, an independent right of review to allow individuals to challenge information disclosed about them before it is given to their employer; and Reducing the number of positions requiring barring checks from 9.3 million to around 5 million.
Guidance for schools is available on the Bristol CC Intranet (The Source) via the link below, and on the DBS website at http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crime/vettingbarring-scheme/ http://intranet.bcc.lan/ccm/navigation/support-services/sts-knowledgebase/hr-selfservice/understanding-your-contract-and-how-we-work/crb-checks-and-disclosureinformation/
8
The guidance includes information on the new definition of ‘Regulated Activity’ and transition from the CRB to the Disclosure and Barring Scheme, including the timeline for introducing new DBS Application Forms. Contact; HR STS Tel 0117 3521400 Attn: Chair of Staffing, Head 6. Schools to be given greater flexibility to set teachers pay On 5 December, the School Teachers’ Review Body (STRB) released its most recent report into teachers’ pay. In producing the report, the STRB took evidence from the major teaching and head teacher unions, employers, government and the NGA. The report recommends a number of changes, which the Secretary of State for Education has accepted. The main changes proposed by the STRB are: • Automatic increases up the main-scale to be abolished • Pay progression to be based on annual appraisal performance • Pay scales to be retained - pay points will remain in place for reference purposes • The retention of the four geographical pay bands • The removal of the obligation on schools to match a teacher’s previous salary. The Next Steps Following consultation, the Government’s response will be confirmed in early 2013, with an intention to implement the recommendations in September 2013. A Fact Sheet is available on the DfE website at www.education.gov.uk/pay , the purpose of which is to explain the changes that are being proposed and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about what the changes might mean for teachers' future pay arrangements. The full document with associated papers can be found at: http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/careers/payandpensions/a00203870/strbremit-21st-report Attn: All Governors 7. Headteacher and Governing Body Expectations A useful updated document has been published by the NAHT and National Governors Association setting out what a governing body can expect from their headteacher and what a headteacher can expect from the governing body. This may be a helpful document to consider when reviewing the effectiveness of your governing body. An outstanding governing body starts with outstanding relationships, and a shared understanding of what you can expect from one another. A copy is attached at Appendix 1 and an electronic copy is attached with the email circulation of this Bulletin. Contact: Governor Development Service, 0117 903 1396: GDS@bristol.gov.uk
9
Attn: Staffing Committee, Head 8. Governors and Staff Performance What is the governing body’s role in staff performance? The National Association of Governors and Co-Ordinators of Governors Services have produced an excellent document, Knowing Your School; Governors and staff performance, to help clarify the answer to this question and provide guidance on the role. An electronic copy is attached with the email circulation of this Bulletin. The guide is also available on the NGA website along with others in the ‘Knowing your School’ series. Go to; http://www.nga.org.uk/Resources/Useful-Documents.aspx Attn: Chair, Head 9. OFSTED; being ready when the inspector calls A copy of the letter an OFSTED inspector sends to a headteacher after the initial call notifying them of a forthcoming inspection is attached at Appendix 2. This outlines the process that will be followed during the inspection and includes a list of documents that the head will be asked to provide on the first morning. The letter also includes a message schools must pass on to parents encouraging them to record their opinions of the school on-line using the Parent View section of the OFSTED website. This example letter will help governors and headteachers know what to expect if and when the call from the inspector comes, and make any preparations they may consider necessary. Contact: Governor Development Service, 0117 903 1396: GDS@bristol.gov.uk Attn: Chair, Chair of Staffing, Head 10. Guidance on dealing with grievances against the headteacher A reminder that HR guidance for governors on dealing with grievances against the headteacher is available. Following the right process when difficult situations such as this arise is essential for all concerned. We would always advise that you contact your HR advisor immediately if this situation arises at your school. This document is available on request from HR STS Tel 0117 3521400 Or on BCC intranet (The Source) accessible through your school http://stskb.bcc.lan/stskbDocs/Schools/PoliciesandProceduresforSchools/Legallyrequir ed/EmployeeGrievanceProcedure/grievances-against-headteachers-guidance.doc
10
Attn: Chair of Finance 11. Trading with schools The successful launch of the new Trading with Schools (TWS) service took place on 5 December 2012, with the publication of the catalogue of services for April 2013. The event provided an opportunity for headteachers, business managers and governors to meet the TWS Programme Team, service managers and their personal client managers. Annie Hudson, Strategic Director, who attended the event said: “The primary aim of the Trading with Schools Service is to support schools in delivering a first class education for all learners. I am sure this is the beginning of a successful venture, which creates and maintains a strong customer-responsive relationship with all Bristol schools. This is central to the future delivery of services.” With a dedicated focus on serving schools as customers, TWS will also ensure value for money and high quality service delivery. Building good relationships with schools is a key aim of the service in order to help schools meet current and future needs. TWS brings together expertise and a range of services from both the Children and Young People’s and Corporate Service areas for the first time. Some of our key services have been redesigned in response to schools’ needs, including HR and finance. Headteachers, business managers and chairs of governors have worked with TWS to inform the design of the new trading service. Following comments and feedback from schools and academies, TWS is also re-modelling services to better meet the needs of schools and academies. The TWS catalogue has been sent to every school and academy in Bristol and provides a comprehensive description of all the services that are currently available. Downloadable copies are online at: www.bristol.gov.uk/tradingwithschools Every school and academy has a dedicated client manager who is the prime point of contact for schools. This new role has been put into place to provide direct support to schools on maintaining on-going, everyday services and to help address special programme needs or services. Client managers will work closely with each school and academy to: o design a bespoke package of services which meets their needs o provide further advice on the offer and pricing structures o agree service requirements o ensure services are effective and efficient o discuss ways in which the current services can be improved o listen to new ideas about the development of future services Future developments will include: o a dedicated website, with secure password access for every school and academy 11
o a comprehensive Continuing Professional Development catalogue, which will be published later in the Spring Term 2013 offering a wider range of professional o development opportunities To find out more about the services, price plans or to arrange a visit from one of TWS client manager specialists, please contact TWS on 0117 922 2444 between 8am and 6pm or email: Contact: Trading with School, Tel: 0117 377 3676, tradingwithschools@bristol.gov.uk Attn: All Governors, Clerk 12. Information Packs for Governors A reminder that a range of governor information packs are available from the Governor Development Service on specialist areas of governance. Most have been updated at March 2012 and new packs are being added to the list; o o o o o o o o o o o
Chairing a Committee Children in Care Complaint Handling Data (Primary) Exclusions (updates pending) Governor Recruitment and Retention Health and Safety and Wellbeing Named Governor Recruiting a Clerk Safeguarding Special Educational Needs (updates pending)
New packs planned for later in the year; o Guidance on Headteacher Reports to Governors o Clerking Panels o Data (Secondary) Let us know if there is anything particular you would like to see added to the list. Copies are available from GDS by email on request. Contact: Governor Development Service, 0117 903 1396: GDS@bristol.gov.uk Attn: Academy Chair, Chair of Finance, Principal and Clerk 13. Academies Financial Handbook, highlighting Financial Control Process. An updated Academies Financial Handbook was published by the DfE at the end of last year. It sets out the financial requirements for academy trusts. The Handbook, together with the funding agreement, sets out the financial relationship between the Education Funding Agency and Academy Trusts. The Handbook provides clear and concise guidance, and is essential reading for academy principals, academy principal finance officers, chairs of governing bodies, chairs of finance and general purposes committees. The extract below highlights the financial control processes that must be in place for every academy. 12
Internal Audit, the responsible Officer and Peer Review Every Academy Trust must have in place a process for independent checking of financial controls, systems, transactions and risks. Ideally this process should be driven by an audit committee appointed by the governing body, but the Education Funding Agency recognises that this may not be a practical position for every Academy Trust, especially for those that are smaller or where there is a limited pool of potential governors to provide the necessary direction. The Education Funding Agency has, therefore, provided for a system which allows some flexibility as to how any particular Academy Trust discharges these requirements. All Academy Trust must establish either an audit committee or a committee which fulfils the functions of an audit committee (i.e. it could be an addition to the terms of reference to an existing committee, other than the finance committee, and have an overlapping or fully integrated membership). The decision will be for the governing body, and should reflect the size and complexity of the organisation. The Education Funding Agency’s expectations are that: •
all Academy Trusts that are a multi-academy federation must have a dedicated audit committee;
•
all Academy Trusts with an income of over £10m or capitalised asset value of over £30 million should consider having a dedicated audit committee; and
•
all other Academy Trusts may have a dedicated audit committee.
The relevant committee must review the risks to internal financial control at the Academy Trust and must agree a programme of work that will address these risks, inform the statement of internal control and, so far as is possible, provide assurance to the external auditors. Academy Trusts may manage this programme of risk review in the way that they deem most appropriate to their circumstances. Options include: •
The work of an internal audit service (either in-house, bought-in or provided by a sponsor).
•
The performance of a supplementary programme of work by the Academy Trust’s external auditors.
•
The work of a responsible officer (i.e. an individual who is a non-employed governor with an appropriate level of qualifications and/or experience), and who neither charges nor is paid by the Academy Trust for their work.
•
Completing the work by peer review (i.e. the work being performed by the Principal Finance Officer, or a suitably qualified or experienced member of the finance team, from another Academy Trust, as an “independent reviewer”).
Any Academy Trust may commission this programme of work combining the above options. For example, a Responsible Officer may delegate some of the detailed checking to an external contractor or peer reviewer. The adequacy of the arrangements at each Academy Trust will be established as part of the process leading to the accounting officer’s annual statement, or, where appropriate, through the self-assessment review of Financial Management and Governance. The Academy Financial Handbook can be found in full at; http://www.education.gov.uk/aboutdfe/executiveagencies/efa/efafundingfinance /b00212647/external-assurance 13
APPENDIX 1
14
15
Tribal Education 1-4 Portland Square Bristol BS2 8RR
APPENDIX 2
Dear
Inspection of …School……………….from ……Date……….. Following (Lead Inspector’s)telephone call today, I am writing on behalf of Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education, Children’s Services and Skills (HMCI) to confirm that your school will be inspected under section 5 of the Education Act 2005 from…..(Date). The inspection will follow The framework for school inspection 1 , and the guidance set out in the School inspection handbook 2 . The inspection will be led by…………, who has already telephoned the headteacher to discuss the arrangements for the inspection. The lead inspector will be accompanied by two inspectors. Ofsted employment and CRB checks Ofsted and its partner inspection service providers have undertaken the required employment checks for all staff who visit schools and colleges as part of an inspection. This includes all appropriate employment checks and an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau disclosure. We further require that all staff are re-checked every three years, although we recognise that this is not a statutory requirement. HMI, additional inspectors and other staff who visit schools and colleges do not carry their CRB disclosure certificate with them. However, they carry official Ofsted photo identification badges which are provided to confirm to schools and other providers that they are subject to the safeguarding process outlined. Seeking the views of parents – your statutory duty I enclose a letter and the leaflet School inspections: a guide for parents for you to send to all registered parents (and carers) of registered pupils at the school, including those who are currently on sick leave or who have been temporarily excluded. The governing body is required to take all reasonable steps to distribute these to parents, under section 6 of the Education Act 2005. The letter advises parents of the date of the inspection, and invites them to inform the inspection team of their views about the school via Ofsted’s online survey site Parent View 3 . Seeking the views of staff
1 2 3
The framework for school inspection (120100) Ofsted, 2012; www.ofsted.gov.uk/resources/120100 School inspection handbook (120101) Ofsted, 2012; www.ofsted.gov.uk/resources/120101 http://www.parentview.ofsted.gov.uk/
16
I have also enclosed Ofsted’s Inspection questionnaire for school staff. We would like to invite all staff who work at the school to complete this if they wish. This is a confidential questionnaire and responses should be returned in sealed envelopes. Please do not open any that are returned in sealed envelopes. If you receive any staff questionnaires after the inspection has finished, please post them to me at the above address. Although questionnaires which arrive after an inspection has finished cannot inform the inspection judgements, it is important that they are checked by Ofsted in case they raise any child protection issues. Again, please do not open or read the questionnaires in order to maintain confidentiality. Summary of school self-evaluation Ofsted no longer expects schools to complete a self-evaluation form (SEF). However, inspectors will continue to discuss your evaluation of the school’s performance and consider its rigour and accuracy when making judgements, particularly in relation to leadership and management. As there is no longer a set format in which to produce a self-evaluation, inspectors will accept your summary self-evaluation in whatever form you choose to present it. The lead inspector will wish to talk about your summary self-evaluation evidence early during the inspection. If you have an electronic copy of a summary of your self-evaluation that you would be happy to send to us in advance of the inspection, you can upload the self-evaluation information to our inspection portal, as follows: Alternatively, you can email your self-evaluation to us at: XX Please ensure that you password-protect the information before it is sent to us by email, and that you supply the password and the self-evaluation information separately. Other documentation required To assist with the inspection, I would be very grateful if you could have a number of documents available when the inspection team arrives in the morning. if available, a summary of the school’s self-evaluation the current school improvement plan school timetable information, staff list and times for the school day any information about pre-planned interruptions to normal school routines during the inspection the single central record, which summarises the checks and vetting of all staff working with pupils all logs that record exclusions, pupils taken off roll, incidents of poor behaviour, racist incidents and incidents of bullying, including homophobic bullying details about the school’s use of alternative provision up-to-date attendance information records of the monitoring of the quality of teaching information about the school’s performance management arrangements, including the most recent performance management outcomes and their relationship to salary 17
progression; inspectors should make it clear that this must be provided in an anonymised format documented evidence of the work of governors 4 and their impact reports of any external evaluation of the school. Report on the inspection outcomes The lead inspector will share the main inspection findings, including provisional grades, at the end of the inspection. Although unlikely, the grades may be subject to change because of quality assurance checks and should, therefore, be treated as confidential until the school receives a copy of the final inspection report. The report is finalised by the lead inspector immediately after the inspection. We will send the draft report electronically to the school no later than five working days after the end of the inspection, taking account of public and school holidays. The school will have one working day to carry out the factual accuracy check. Judgements in the report cannot be changed unless factual errors or omission have a significant bearing on them. You will receive a final copy of the inspection report. The governing body must take all reasonably practicable steps to ensure that every registered parent at the school receives a copy of the report within five working days of receipt (section 14(4)(c) of the Education Act 2005 and regulations SI 2005 no.2038). We will publish the report on the Ofsted website five working days after we have sent you the report. In the event that a school’s overall effectiveness is judged to be inadequate, the timeline for publication of the inspection report is longer, as the judgement is subject to a moderation process. This means that schools receive the draft report later than usual, and have five working days to carry out the factual accuracy check. School inspection survey We are interested to know your views on the inspection process, and invite you, and your staff and governors, to complete our online school inspection survey. This is best done after you have received your inspection report. I will send you details on how to access the survey with the final copy of your inspection report. If you have concerns about any aspect of the inspection, or about the conduct of any of the inspection team, please discuss this with the lead inspector in the first instance. Should you wish to speak with another person, please contact me using the contact details above. Although we expect that the inspection will run smoothly, we have established a procedure for complaints. This is available on our website. I hope this letter answers your immediate questions about the inspection, but if you have any further queries please do not hesitate to contact me. Yours Sincerely,
Tribal Tribal is an inspection services provider working in partnership with Ofsted 4
‘Governors’ refers to those responsible for governance in a school. They may be part of a school’s local board, committee or governing body
18
TRAINING AND CONFERENCE ITEMS 14. Strategic Briefings
Attn: All Governors
The remaining Strategic Briefings for governors and headteachers for 2012/13 will take place on; • •
Term 3 Term 5
Wednesday 23 January 2013 Wednesday 15 May 2013
All 6.00 to 8.00pm The agenda for 23 January has been circulated to chairs and clerks by email. The venue is Hannah More Primary School, New Kingsley Road, BS2 0LT. Contact: Governor Development Service, 0117 903 1396: GDS@bristol.gov.uk Attn: All Governors 15. Governors Training: Are your Governors keeping up to Date? Our Annual Governor Training Programme for 2012/13 was sent to all governors with the summer edition of the Bristol Governor Newsletter. The Programme is also available on our website at http://www.bristol.gov.uk/page/trainingand-support. It has been revised to confirm that all the post April 2013 courses previously marked as ‘Provisional’ are now confirmed. If we provide any new sessions in addition to the published programme we will advertise these through the Governors’ Bulletin and Newsletters. If you are not sure who has been on which course, we can provide a training report for your governing body on request. If you wish to discuss the possibility of arranging school based training for your governors please contact us. Contact: Governor Development Service, 0117 903 1396: GDS@bristol.gov.uk 16. Support Networks for Governors
Attn: All Governors
The Association of Bristol Governors provides an opportunity for governors from across Bristol to meet together to hear and discuss developments in education in our city and share good practice. All governors are welcome to attend. The proposed dates for 2012/2013 are: • •
*Revised Date* Tuesday 5 March 2013 ( 6.30pm –venue to be confirmed) Thursday 13 June 2013
19
Speakers at the March meeting will include Annie Hudson, giving an update on trends and expectations, and Professor Chris James from the University of Bath talking about effective governance, new dimensions and demands. Details (timing, venue and agenda) to be confirmed nearer the dates. Contact; Association Clerk, Liz Jahn: lizatko@blueyonder.co.uk Attn: Chairs and Aspiring Chairs 17. Training and Development Opportunity for Chairs and Aspiring Chairs Following our successful participation in the National College of School Leadership pilot of the new Development Programme for Chairs of Governors, we are very pleased to be working with SELT, Southern Educational Leadership Trust, to ensure this excellent development opportunity is available for Bristol chairs of governors, and anyone who aspires to the role of chair. Further details are set out on the attached flyer. You can also contact Louise Bale or Claire Foxwell in GDS to find out more. If you would like to speak to a current Bristol Chair who took part in the pilot in 2012 to hear about their experiences and how the programme has benefited them that can easily be arranged. Contact: Governor Development Service, 0117 903 1396: GDS@bristol.gov.uk
20
21
22
Index of Key Items in GDS Publications Below is a quick reference guide to help you find key items that have appeared in The Bristol Governor newsletter and Termly and Monthly Governor Bulletins over the last two academic years. Subjects are listed alphabetically. Back issues of the Newsletter and Bulletin can be found on the GDS website at: http://www.bristol-cyps.org.uk/services/gds/gds.html.
Subject Absences for Trivial Medical Reasons Academy Annual General Meetings Academy Clerking Academy Status; Information for Schools considering conversion Activities for All (Called 'Schools Out' in Bristol) ; An introduction to the Extended Services Disadvantage Subsidy Agency Worker Regulations Alcohol and Raffles Annual Safeguarding Audit Anti-Bullying Guidance Appeal Or Complaint Hearings Associate Members - A Reminder Attendance - Penalty Notices Back on Track in Bristol Black Bristolians Teaching Pack Behaviour Policy Capability and Performance Management Policies Careers Guidance Careers Guidance for Young People; Statutory Guidance Issued Casual Workers Chairs Emails Child Protection and Children in care Governor Checklists
Publication Monthly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin Monthly Governor Bulletin Monthly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor
Issue Number & Date 51 - March 2008 39 – Autumn 2012 36 – Autumn 2011 70 - Term 3 2011
65 - Term 4 2010 76 – Term 3 2012 60 - Term 6 2009 81– Term 2 2012/13 24 - Autumn 2007 73 – Term 6 2011 50 - January 2008 51 - March 2008 66 - Term 5 2010 26 - Summer 2008 81– Term 2 2012/13 79 – Term 6 2012 38 – Summer 2012 78 – Term 5 2012 78 – Term 5 2012 35 – Summer 2011
Monthly Governor Bulletin
55 - October 2008
The Bristol Governor
38 – Summer 2012
Changes to Occupational Health & Counselling
Termly Governor Bulletin
79 – Term 6 2012
Changing school session times
Monthly Governor Bulletin
74 - Term 1 2011
Child Protection Information and the Data Protection Act
Monthly Governor Bulletin
50 - January 2008
Changes to the Constitution of Governing Bodies
23
Children in Care – Agreed Protocol on Exclusions Children in Care; New Model Policy Children in Care: Named Governors' Annual Report Clerks Performance Management Co-Chairs: Legal Advice Code of Conduct for School Staff-inc social networking Code of Practice for School Governors Collaboration Collective Worship; Guidance and Model Policy for Schools Community Cohesion: Ofsted View Complaints; Guidance on handling school complaints Constitution of the Governing Body: How many governors do we need? Dealing with Allegations against Staff Dedicated Headship Time Deputy Headteachers: Appointment Reminder Designated Teacher for Looked after Children; Statutory Guidance Early Years Foundation Stage – New Framework Effective Governing Bodies ‘ Learning from the best’ OFSTED report Education Bill Education Provision for Improving Behaviour Regulations Emotional Health and Wellbeing Development in Schools English Baccalaureate Ensuring Good Behaviour; Guidance Equality Act 2010 The Equality Act and it’s impact on Recruitment Practices Exclusion: Guidance on Improving Behaviour and Attendance Exclusion powers change Extended Services: a Quick Guide EZPZ Pay? It’s easy peasy Financial Management in Schools: Update Fraud Risks in Schools; Advice for Governors Gifted and Talented Governance Self Review Tool Governing Body Year Planner 2012/13
Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Monthly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Monthly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor
77 – Term 4 2012 71 – Term 4 2011 70 - Term 4 2011 69 – Term 2 2010/11 58 - March 2009 72 Term 5 2011 78 – Term 5 2012 31 – Spring 2010 75 – Term 2 2011/12 29 - Summer 2009 72 - Term 5 2011 39 – Autumn 2012 75 – Term 2 2011/12 28 - Spring 2009 51 - March 2008 64 - Term 3 2010 38- Summer 2012
The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin
35 – Summer 2011 35 – Summer 2011
The Bristol Governor
33 – Winter 2010
The Bristol Governor
25 - Spring 2008
The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Monthly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor
38– Summer 2012
66 – Term 6 2010 78 – Term 5 2012 39 – Autumn 2012 78 – Term 5 2012 76 – Term 3 2012
60 - Term 6 2009 75 – Term 2 2011/12 71 – Term 4 2011 76 – Term 3 2012 31 – Spring 2010 55 - October 2008 38 – Summer 2012
24
Governors Guide to the Law Published Governor Recruitment Governor's Personal Conduct Governors’ Virtual Office Guidance on Covering PPA Time Handling allegation of abuse; new guidance Headteacher Appointments; what questions should you be asking?
Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Monthly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Monthly Governor Bulletin
79 – Term 6 2012 25 - Spring 2008 50 - January 2008 64 – Term 3 2010 75 – Term 2 2011/12 81– Term 2 2012/13 51 - March 2008
Headteachers Pay: Limit On The Value of Discretions
Termly Governor Bulletin
73 – Term 6 2011
Headteachers Performance Management
Termly Governor Bulletin
77 – Term 4 2012
The Bristol Governor
35 - Summer 2011
Headteacher Reports to Governing Bodies: Guidance
Termly Governor Bulletin
63 - Term 2 2009/10
Health & Safety; Reporting Incidents and 'Near Misses'
Monthly Governor Bulletin
56 - December 2008
Health & Safety; CYPS Manual Handling Policy - Pupils
Monthly Governor Bulletin
52 - May 2008
Headteacher Recruitment Toolkit
Induction of newly qualified teachers Informal Tenancies Advice Information Packs for governors Information for Parents; Legal requirements change Job Descriptions for “Named Governors” Lamb Enquiry; SEN System Leadership of more than one school Leave of Absence Local Government Ombudsman’s Role in School Complaints to Cease Management of Change Policy Managing Attendance Policy Media Toolkit for Schools Minute Taking Mobile phones in School; template policies Monitoring and Evaluation Programme National Curriculum Review National Curriculum Tests: 2012 Changes National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) Ofsted Inspection Framework – revised from September 2012 Ofsted Inspection - Safeguarding Children Elements
Termly Governor Bulletin Monthly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor Monthly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Monthly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin
78 – Term 5 2012 51 - March 2008 78 – Term 5 2012 78 – Term 5 2011/12 69 – Term 2 2010/11 31 – Spring 2010 36 – Autumn 2011 47 - September 2007 78 – Term 5 2012 70 – Term 3 2011 67 – Term 6 2010 54 - September 2008 66 - Term 5 2010 79 – Term 6 2012
The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin
33 – Winter 2010 34-Spring 2011 36 – Autumn 2011
The Bristol Governor
39 – Autumn 2012
Termly Governor Bulletin
65 - Term 4 2010
76 – Term 3 2012
25
Ofsted 2012: New Inspection Framework Ofsted to recommend external reviews of governance Ofsted – What do they expect to see - Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development One-to-One Tuition Online e-recruitment system for schools Parent Council: What it can do for your School Parent Governor Role; Guidance article Pay Increase for Support Staff Pay Policy 2010
The Bristol Governor Termly Governor
36 – Autumn 2011 81– Term 2 2012/13
The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin
38 – Summer 2012 34 – Spring 2011 32 – Summer 2010 26 - Summer 2008 77 – Term 4 2012 73 – Term 6 2011 70 - Term 3 2011
Performance Management: Headteacher Annual Report
Monthly Governor Bulletin
55 - October 2008
Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) Education
Termly Governor Bulletin
60 - Term 6 2009
PPA Cover and Cover Supervision - Deployment of Support Staff
Monthly Governor Bulletin
53 - July 2008
Pre-employment Health Screening Preventing Violent Extremism Private Fostering Arrangements Protocol On Exclusions Public Liability Insurance for School Governors Pupil Premium – New Requirement to report RAISEonline guide for Governors Raising the Participation Age Rarely Cover' Guidance Recommended 15 hours Clerking Time and Key Tasks Record Retention - advice to schools Recruiting Clerks Recruitment Policy Redeployment Redeployment of displaced school staff Redundancy, Voluntary Severance and Pay Protection Requirement to Report on the Pupil Premium Retirement Age –update on legislative changes Review of Capability Procedure for teachers Revised arrangements for regulating the teaching profession Safeguarding Audit Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment Safeguarding in Schools: Best Practice Safer Recruitment Online Training; New Web Location
Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Monthly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Monthly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor Monthly Governor Bulletin Monthly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Termly bulletin Termly bulletin Termly bulletin Termly bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor
57 – January 2009 59 - Term 5 2009 58 - March 2009 67 – Term 6 2010 54 - September 2008 38 – Summer 2012 76 – Term 3 2012 39 – Autumn 2012 29 - Summer 2009 53 - July 2008 54 - September 2008 69 – Term 2 2010/11 79 – Term 6 2012 73 – Term 6 2011 78 - Term 5 2012 33 – Winter 2010 79 – Term 6 2012 72- Term 5 2011 78 – Term 5 2012 78 – Term 5 2012 69 – Term 2 2010/11 71 - Term 4 2011 36 – Autumn 2011 38– Summer 2012
26
School Admissions Code and School Admission Appeals Code School Complaints School Charging Guidance School Food Standards Schools Financial Value Standard (SFVS) School Grounds School-Home Support School Meals; Guidance Note for Failures to Pay School Policies; What is required by Law School Profile School Self-Evaluation School Visits by Governors School Website; Information on statutory content SEAL - do we know how we're doing? SEF Withdrawn SEN: Assessing Pupil Progress SEN Funding Scheme Review SEN Green Paper SEN Mandatory training for newly appointed SENCOs SENCO Regulations Sex Education for Teenagers Site Security Recommendations Skills Audit; A Better Way? Snow, snow, snow! A Message from Bill Crocker Social Networking Policy Staff Appeal Hearings Staff Employment in Schools; Guidance Staff Governors Staff Health & Wellbeing Strategy for our Education Establishments
Monthly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Monthly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Monthly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor Monthly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin Monthly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin Monthly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor
58 - March 2009 38 – Summer 2012 58 - March 2009 29 - Summer 2009 77 - Term 4 2012 29 - Summer 2009 36 – Autumn 2011 49 - December 2007 77 – Term 4 2012 74 - Term 1 2011 36 - Autumn 2011 25 - Spring 2008 81– Term 2 2012/13 57 - January 2009 33 – Winter 2010 32 – Summer 2010 31 – Spring 2010 35 – Summer 2011 67 – Term 6 2010 56 - December 2008 64 – Term 3 2010 65 - Term 4 2010 36 – Autumn 2011 65 - Term 4 2010 65 - Term 4 2010 73 – Term 6 2011 64 – Term 3 2010 35 – Summer 2011
Monthly Governor Bulletin
58 - March 2009
Staff Improving Performance
Termly Governor Bulletin
73 – Term 6 2011
Standards and Pupil Progress: some questions to ask Statutory Report on Safeguarding Study Leave Guidance Succession Planning for Governors
Termly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor Monthly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin Monthly Governor Bulletin Termly Governor Bulletin
66 – Term 5 2010 60 - Term 6 2009 26 - Summer 2008 24 - Autumn 2007
49 - December 2007 73 – Term 6 2011
Termly Governor Bulletin
76 – Term 3 2012
The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor
39 – Autumn 2012 39 – Autumn 2012 24 - Autumn 2007
Succession Planning: Headteachers Support Staff in The Classroom Tackling Homophobic Bullying in Schools Teachers’ Maternity & Adoption Scheme The Education (Educational Provision for Improving Behaviour) Regulations 201039 – Autumn 2012 The HOPE; news from the governing body of Bristol’s virtual school Troubled Families Scheme Uniform Guidance
56 - December 2008 73 – Term 6 2011
27
Unofficial School Funds - Commemorative Functions/Gifts Vetting and Barring Review Update Young Carers in Education
Monthly Governor Bulletin The Bristol Governor The Bristol Governor
56 - December 2008 34 Spring 2011 38 – Summer 2012
28