National Workload Agreement - Rarely Cover

Further to MI 19/09 and MI 89/09, plus a number of queries raised by schools, it is considered by Local WAMG that a follow-up communication is necessary before the end of term.

Firstly, to remind schools about the useful resources already available and listed in the WAMG Rarely Cover Implementation Process Guidance note. Schools are urged to undertake the important analysis as suggested under points 16 and 17 of that note as soon as possible.

And, secondly, to let schools know that the current policy on leave of absence featured in the Schools Personnel Handbook may need to be altered once the proposed changes to the School Teachers Pay and Conditions Document (STPCD) 2009 are confirmed. NB: These changes remain subject to the normal consultation that is undertaken for the whole of the STPCD prior to its formal implementation. Should you wish to check on the progress of the normal consultation on the STPCD - go to www.teachernet.gov.uk.

Rarely cover will become a statutory provision and it is recognised that there is a need to incorporate it into a 'standard attendance policy', i.e. the model leave of absence policy. Any revised policy will be subject to the normal consultation with county trade union representatives and would then be issued to schools as early in the Autumn Term as possible with the recommendation that governing bodies adopt this. However, schools should bear in mind the guidance given on consulting their staff in the WAMG Process Guidance Note.

Finally, it is recommended that schools refer to Annex A of the WAMG Process Guidance Note on Deployment of support staff in relation to teachers moving to rarely cover and to bear in mind that the current recommended grade for a Cover Supervisor is Scale 4. Also, for training and development opportunities for support staff please see www.schools.norfolk.gov.uk.

If you have any query on the above or need any advice and support, please contact your school's HR Consultant or HR Officer, or Peter Simmonds on 07795 265669 or peter.simmonds@norfolk.gov.uk, or Virginia Wakely on 01603 638092 or virginia.wakely@norfolk.gov.uk.

This MI has been produced in liaison with the local Workforce Agreement Monitoring Group (WAMG) representing teacher and support staff unions - signatories to the National Agreement, and also the NUT.