Management Information Sheet
Primary Locum Leader Register - New applications required for the Autumn Term
Background
There are occasions when schools suddenly need support because of unforeseen circumstances, such as the illness of the headteacher or another senior leader. In some cases an existing member of staff is able to undertake the post holder's duties until the situation is resolved. In others, where this is not possible, we are often asked by governors to help find a suitable replacement to fulfil the role, sometimes at very short notice.
For many years, the Local Authority has kept a register of experienced and successful headteachers, deputy heads and middle leaders who are willing to be called upon in these circumstances and many have been deployed to schools in need.
The scheme has been updated to support the national strategy for school-to-schoolimprovement and succession planning. Locum leaders continue to work beyond their own school to sustain good leadership and to provide local solutions to intractable problems. Placements are now negotiated at governor level with Norfolk Governor Services acting as the broker.
The Benefits
In addition to being of immense help to schools in difficult situations, supporting another school in this way gives successful headteachers, deputy headteachers and teachers the opportunity to broaden their experience and demonstrate their capacity to respond to the challenges of new and unfamiliar situations. This is a very valuable form of professional development that adds value to their work in their own school when they return, and evidence suggests that this leads to rising standards.
Experience tells us that governing bodies recognise the benefit of this for the staff involved and also for staff who have the opportunity of 'acting-up' in gaining experience and assuming the extra responsibility. Governors' also recognise that in providing such opportunities they are promoting their own reputation for enhancing careers which in turn makes it easier to attract and retain a high calibre workforce. The best governing bodies make strategic plans to accommodate changes in leadership at short notice as this minimises disruption and assures continuity.
Making an Application
The locum leader role is likely to interest headteachers, deputies and assistant heads, recently retired headteachers and other aspirant leaders such as those in the Norfolk Talent Pool.
If interested, please make an application by clicking on the above link to download and complete a pen portrait. Please email the completed document to liz.buckland@norfolk.gov.uk by Thursday, 25 September 2014.
Successful applicants will be given further details including an invitation to attend a short interview. Interviews will take place on Tuesday, 7 October 2014 at the Professional Development Centre, Woodside Road, Norwich.