One of our academies has had a disappointing Ofsted judgment. The head teacher is asking for help from children's services. But our chief executive says we're not resourced to do this.
On one hand, schools are being "liberated from local authority control". On the other, there's an expectation from the DfE (and Ofsted in their framework) that children's services oversee quality in all schools. I'm not surprised there's confusion.
But the key issue is securing good outcomes for the students - and this could be a golden opportunity to change relationships with far more schools than just this one. You need to explain this to your chief executive and get his or her support.
Detailed analysis will show what the school needs to improve. See this as a chance to build some professional capital. Be positive, demonstrate strong but collaborative leadership and engage with the school's leadership team and key governors.
Secure the most professional and supportive relationship you can, ensure improvement in outcomes for the students, and show the school community there is the facility for real collaboration.
Peter Lewis is a freelance providing interim local authority children's services leadership, and a former DCS in Haringey
Email questions, marked "Experts", to cypnow@markallengroup.com
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
