Making the difference – involving parents better in schools

Question 20

Do you agree that education authorities should be enabled to replace the current system of appointing Headteachers and deputy Headteachers with more modern, flexible processes and procedures ?

"1”, “No - current formal process is ideal for appointing senior management"

"2”, “The current system needs to be updated but any new process should preserve the current level of School Board influence"

"3”, “Yes - Agree with the proviso that properly trained parents continue to be represented in the appointment process"

"4”, “Need more info"

"5”, “Yes"

"6”, “Yes - Absolutely"

"7”, “Shouldn't be sole responsibility of education department - feel the status quo is fine."

"8”, “School Board/Parent forum should still have representative on appointment panel"

"9”, “"

"10”, “More information would be required"

"11”, “New regulations for the involvement of parents via the School Board in the appointment of head teachers were introduced in the 2000 Act.  At present the Board has a statutory right to be consulted and involved.  There is no guarantee that this right will continue under the new Act.  The wording seems deliberately vague and it may be that parents will have less input than before."

"12”, “"

"13”, “Yes"

"14”, “We think it should be modernised but there should still be parental involvement"

"15”, “No - parents should be involved"

"16”, “Yes, with any new system being more timely"

"17”, “Yes"

"18”, “Yes"

"19”, “Yes - but parents still need to be involved in the final process as it's the parents who have to work alongside them"

"20”, “No"

"21”, “No - but parents should be consulted"

"22”, “Yes"

"23”, “?"

"24”, “"

"25”, “So long as forum has an input"

"26”, “We need to know what!  The involvement of the School Board in such appointments at present should not be abandoned without evidence that on the whole Schools' interests are not served by it."

"27”, “no"

"28”, “N/A"

"29”, “What is the definition of flexible processes?  Parents were concerned that appointments could be made by people not necessarily in a position to make the best choice for a school"

"30”, “These would have to be better defined before a decision taken"

"31”, “"

"32”, “Is there a problem with the system as it stands?  Surely Directors of Education are the people to answer this question."

"33”, “Not without knowing what these procedures would be"

"34”, “I don't see a problem with current situation"

"35”, “Cannot answer this without the detail or even an outline of the alternative procedures.  The only problem with the current process is the length of time the local authority takes to advertise, interview and draw up a short leet."

"36”, “Current system is suitable.  Keep parent School Board member on the interview panel"

"37”, “Would need more information on flexible processes etc to answer this question properly"

"38”, “Current system for here seems to work ok"

"39”, “"

"40”, “Yes"

"41”, “Why do people believe that because it is  modern it must be better?  Certainly not - in many schools, particularly in rural areas the parents know the type of teacher best suited to the needs of the children"

"42”, “"

"43”, “Not sure without knowing the 'new' process"

"44”, “No need for change"

"45”, “Agree there should be a more to more flexible procedures but parental representation must be involved in the final interview/decision making process"

"46”, “See no real need - based on our own experience"

"47”, “N0 - we have found our authority very poor - Scottish Parliament should have full control"

"48”, “Yes - but these procedures must allow parent forums to be actively involved in the process"

"49”, “"

"50”, “"

"51”, “No - we would like to see what these new systems are first"

"52”, “If the system needs to be updated, then it should be done.  Parental consultation (not merely involvement) should still be part of any new process as it is essential to maintaining a good balance to the partnership process and the future management of schools."

"53”, “"

"54”, “"

"55”, “The question is too broad."

"56”, “No"

"57”, “Do not have enough information to answer but employment legislation provides much protection - keep it as simple as possible for education authority.  As Employer they must have control"

"58”, “Yes - but as a minimum requirement a parent representative should be present 'at interview'  Parents should be involved in the procedure"

"59”, “"

"60”, “As long as some parental involvement was retained and it didn't mean Heads were going to be moving from school to school causing instability"

"61”, “While there may be a need for modernisation of the current system, the process selected must be consistent as otherwise appointments may be subject to challenge.  Thee should be parental involvement but all parents on appointments panels must be trained prior to sitting on these"

"62”, “"

"63”, “In line with local policies and procedures"

"64”, “Improvements could be made to the current appointment system but would need more details of modernisation proposals before commenting on them"

"65”, “"

"66”, “"

"67”, “This is a somewhat biased question and does not define the principles that determine what will be more 'modern' or 'flexible' in new regulations.  However such regulations should be applied consistently across Scotland.  They should guarantee parents are respected equal partners in all stages of the appointment process including short listing and final selection: rather than merely being consulted after decisions are made or asked to endorse the views of professionals employed by an authority.  A selection process for senior appointments involving more than one stage is sensible."

"68”, “Yes"

"69”, “We cannot answer this due to insufficient info on present situation"

"70”, “What is 'a more modern and flexible process etc?' is a question the Board would like to ask before commenting."

"71”, “"

"72”, “"

"73”, “"

"74”, “Can't comment without seeing the process in detail.   Should contain parental involvement as a principle."

"75”, “The current appointment system is acceptable to parents.  Our School Board has been involved in this process and found it to be a very successful and equable way of selecting a senior position"

"76”, “Yes"

"77”, “No"

"78”, “Only properly trained parents should continue to be represented in Head Teacher appointments"

"79”, “Not if this means parents having less say than they do now.  They should be involved in drawing up short lists and have training to help with decision-making processes that do no rely solely on a single interview for each candidate.  Parent forums should not be constricted by Education Authorities' bureaucratic procedures."

"80”, “Yes"

"81”, “No - current legislation is fine"

"82”, “The view is that there is a need to modernise the appointments process for senior management in education but that it is important that there continues to be scope for parental involvement in the process."

"83”, “"

"84”, “School Board involvement in appointment of senior staff should be retained"

"85”, “Do not see any problem with LEA adopting more modern, flexible processes and procedures appointing head teachers and deputy head teachers, as long as parent members of the School Board retain their current rights to be involved in short leeting and be part of the interview panel with a vote."

"86”, “Yes"

"87”, “"

"88”, “Parental involvement with the Board and the need to have the inclusion of parents in the school framework will require that the Board be represented during any appointment procedure.  There is a need for national guidelines for the local authorities concerning this process.  The current process needs reviewing and revision but not so that key stakeholders are excluded as is proposed."

"89”, “"

"90”, “"

"91”, “No"

"92”, “We, as a school board, representing the views of parents whose children attend (our) school, are unanimously rejecting the new proposal, and are against abolishment of the Scottish School Board 1988 Act."

"93”, “Current system adequate, but it could do better."

"94”, “This would require further consultation."

"95”, “Yes"

"96”, “"

"97”, “Parents via board etc should retain a say in appointment of head teachers in whatever system."

"98”, “No"

"99”, “School Board participation in appointments is a valuable asset."

"100”, “Best practice. .We are happy with this present procedures."

"101”, “Yes"

"102”, “No"

"103”, “I believe a rep from the school board should still be entitled to act in appointments but on a restricted basis (i.e. advisory only)."

"104”, “Not relevant to question of abolition of school board act and creation of parent forums, school board members, or parent forum members would still be involved in the process."

"105”, “Don't know."

"106”, “No"

"107”, “Yes."

"108”, “No, present system should be maintained."

"109”, “Yes"

"110”, “We would need to know what would be involved in the more modern process before agreeing.  There should be consultation BEFORE any change."

"111”, “Blank"

"112”, “"

"113”, “No Board members should continue to sit on a selection panel."

"114”, “Yes, agree"

"115”, “No, the all important involvement from the parent representative body must remain the same."

"116”, “Yes."

"117”, “Yes"

"118”, “It depends on what the new system involves."

"119”, “Yes"

"120”, “No"

"121”, “Yes"

"122”, “No - school boards should still be involved."

"123”, “Yes, however I do believe it is important for parent forums to be involved to some extent."

"124”, “No"

"125”, “No"

"126”, “No, I don't agree, for this so often means dispensing with experience, continuity and other staffs trust for a cold theoretical technological answer that produces a manager better suited to a supermarket."

"127”, “School Boards / Parent Forums must continue to be involved - the process does require some modernising."

"128”, “Blank"

"129”, “Depends what the procedure would be and what they want.  It is better to have a National Procedure e.g. to move from one authority to another."

"130”, “No - present system works well."

"131”, “Advertising & promoting the vacancies needs to be ..wide... - e.g. advertising outside Scotland.  Where recruitment difficult ability to offer a relocation package e.g. assistance with housing ?"

"132”, “Blank"

"133”, “Yes"

"134”, “Yes"

"135”, “Parental representatives should be present at any HT and DHT appointments."

"136”, “Blank"

"137”, “No"

"138”, “No"

"139”, “No - if parents continue to be involved in election process then yes."

"140”, “Yes but there should still be a strong element of parental involvement."

"141”, “No"

"142”, “No"

"143”, “Yes"

"144”, “No - what is the current system to be replaced with ??"

"145”, “"

"146”, “"

"147”, “No, definitely not."

"148”, “Needs to be modernised - other mechanisms should be looked at."

"149”, “Other reviews"

"150”, “No"

"151”, “N / A"

"152”, “No - should remain a nationally agreed procedure."

"153”, “Depending on what more modern and flexible may be and actually means."

"154”, “I agree"

"155”, “Blank"

"156”, “What is proposed ?"

"157”, “No.  Very vague.  Generally speaking the more people involved the less satisfactory the result.  Proper consultation essential however."

"158”, “Yes"

"159”, “"

"160”, “No"

"161”, “No - the existing involvement should continue in selection process & should be a requirement.  Built into the legislation."

"162”, “Yes - including proper input from parents via school board."

"163”, “Yes, as long as parents are always involved in the whole appointment process."

"164”, “No I don't agree that the education authorities should be enabled to replace the current appointment system before a fully analysis of the current system's merits and failings and full consultation and analysis of any new proposals is undertaken."

"165”, “Not willing to answer 'loaded' questions about something unnecessary."

"166”, “"

"167”, “Yes but with continued parental involvement.  Parents training must be more comprehensive and supported by the authority."

"168”, “We would need more information on the proposed changes but are happy with the current situation."

"169”, “Our current system is ok"

"170”, “The current system needs reviewed."

"171”, “No"

"172”, “Current procedures are adequate, new measures could only be passed on with stringent and adequate safeguards in place."

"173”, “Yes, there may be experience within the School Board/forum membership which may assist in this appointment process.  There should also be adequate training opportunities for forum members to upgrade skills for these procedures."

"174”, “Probably more professional input into appointments would be acceptable but it is still important that parents input should be recognised in some form."

"175”, “Depends what is meant by more modern flexible processes and procedures.  It is important that parents retain their input in the appointments of Head Teachers and Deputes."

"176”, “Possibly - but not sure exactly how this could be done."

"177”, “Explain more modern, flexible processes and procedures!  Question is loaded - assumes present system is inflexible."

"178”, “We cannot comment - what is meant by ""more modern, flexible processes and procedures""?  Parents should still be involved as at present."

"179”, “No - parents must always have direct input into the appointment of the Head Teachers and Deputy Head Teachers."

"180”, “"

"181”, “It is difficult to determine what modern flexible processes and procedures will mean.  Does it mean that some schools will not have a Head Teacher?  This should surely be open to debate."

"182”, “Senior school appointments should have parental involvement from a School Board or parent forum"

"183”, “Yes - undoubtedly needs reform.  parent voice should be maintained.  Currently elected councillors who have no contact or link at all with the school can be involved in the process which seems inappropriate.  The proposed open structure of the parent forum with an unlimited number of members may make it difficult to select parent representatives."

"184”, “No - could leave a situation open to favouritism.  Board best interests for all involved - Teachers, Children, School and Parents"

"185”, “"

"186”, “Yes as long as parents are still actively involved in selection and interview process as they have a vested interest in their child's education"

"187”, “Yes, but in line with Best Practice and Industry standard methods and with a role / say for parents via school board attendance at the relevant stage."

"188”, “Yes"

"189”, “Yes"

"190”, “No.  I don't believe current processes are fundamentally wrong."

"191”, “"

"192”, “What is current system? Not clear what is proposed to replace it?"

"193”, “Yes - forum committee members should still sit on the interview panel but should be in the minority and training should be provided."

"194”, “We do not have a problem with replacing the current system but parents should still have involvement.  Please clarify modern, flexible processes and procedures?"

"195”, “If the EA feels this is required to improve children's education then ok"

"196”, “Yes but should include parents though not a majority."

"197”, “No"

"198”, “Agree in principle but more information required to fully answer question."

"199”, “We would hope that any proposals would be available for comment before any new system is put in place.  Comment could be made at that time."

"200”, “Agree - as long as parents still have a real say in this, i.e. a vote not just token acknowledgement"

"201”, “The current appointment system is acceptable to parents.  Our School Board has been involved in this process and found  it to be very successful and equitable way to select a senior member of staff."

"202”, “The current system requires to be reviewed.  parents should continue to be involved in the appointments process.  However the whole area of training for recruitment and selection of staff must be addressed."

"203”, “Yes"

"204”, “No"

"205”, “No"

"206”, “Yes - parents not to be. Token add on though."

"207”, “Blank"

"208”, “Yes - parents must be involved but not a token gesture."

"209”, “No, I think the current system of appointing head teachers & deputies fair."

"210”, “Yes"

"211”, “Yes"

"212”, “Yes"

"213”, “No comment to make at this time but full consultation, as mentioned, will be essential."

"214”, “No"

"215”, “Don't know"

"216”, “Unable to respond due to lack of information."

"217”, “This could be reviewed - but should be separate from the Board / Forum discussion."

"218”, “No, they are fine as they are."

"219”, “Blank"

"220”, “Yes"

"221”, “Yes, as up-to-date methods are necessary."

"222”, “Yes, pending further information, continuing parental involvement & continuing 50 : 50 LA : School Board representation on interview panel."

"223”, “Yes.  But this alone is not a justification for the bill.  This bill does not guarantee strong parental and other stakeholder involvement in such appointments."

"224”, “"

"225”, “Yes !!"

"226”, “No.  Maintain the Status Quo."

"227”, “Yes"

"228”, “No"

"229”, “Yes but must retain school board participation."

"230”, “Blank"

"231”, “No"

"232”, “"

"233”, “No"

"234”, “It is important that parent forums continue to be involved in this process but the whole system could be modernised."

"235”, “Yes, but there should still be parental / school board involvement."

"236”, “Can't comment as do not know what ""modern, flexible process and procedures"" are."

"237”, “"

"238”, “(Response to this QS not completely supplied - beginning is missing).
........ the presentation to include on panels for the appointment of Headteachers and depute.  Flexible processes and procedures are again too vague."

"239”, “No, the forum should be allowed to be involved as per school board legislation."

"240”, “Yes definitely."

"241”, “Yes - current short interview could be updated.  But parental representation should still be the case.  Otherwise authority would have carte blanche to make political appointments."

"242”, “Yes.  Require clarification of what the new 'modern processes' could be."

"243”, “Unless more modern, flexible processes and procedures are made clear - then unknown !
If process is better - then agree."

"244”, “Yes, but legislation should insist that a parent representative be included in the selection process so that Head Teacher and deputies are selected with some input from parents."

"245”, “How can this be answered informatively - WITH WHAT?  Do not remove parental rights for representative on interview panels for H/T and depute h/t posts.  IT WORKS THEY ARE OUR CHILDREN AFTER ALL !!"

"246”, “"

"247”, “"

"248”, “We feel there should  be a change - a more balanced view rather than just relying on an interview.  We feel parents should still be involved in the interview process."

"249”, “I have no comment.  The appointment of Head Teachers and Deputies in my opinion, should not be part of the forum remit to discuss."

"250”, “Yes"

"251”, “We would wish to know what the education authority proposed before agreeing to this change.  Yes - provided that parental involvement is not diluted further."

"252”, “"

"253”, “"

"254”, “Our authority has good practice and there is no point in amending it."

"255”, “No we believe the current process is flexible enough.  Change would only undermine the responsibility and input of parents thereby undermining the whole concept of ""parental involvement"" when it is seen as inconvenient."

"256”, “Yes - direct parental involvement essential"

"257”, “No"

"258”, “What is a more 'modern flexible process'? More information is required to give an informed response.  We believe the structure is fine as it is!"

"259”, “Can't comment as don't know what current system is or what is proposed.  Our concern is that the average parent doesn't have the skills to input to recruitment of Head Teacher"

"260”, “Yes"

"261”, “Not enough information on 'modern flexible processes and procedures'"

"262”, “A development board approach may give more information to help make decisions rather than interview board."

"263”, “Agree except parent representation be retained."

"264”, “We agree that appointment (interviews and employment law) is constantly changing but school/parental representation in any process must remain the same."

"265”, “We would prefer to enhance current procedures, maintaining and enhancing parental involvement in decision making."

"266”, “This must be in line with local policies and procedures, maintaining statutory involvement.  (Our Region) has a model of good practice."

"267”, “"

"268”, “"

"269”, “No"

"270”, “No"

"271”, “No"

"272”, “No - more information would be required to make a balanced judgement to change."

"273”, “Don't know what this might mean"

"274”, “Very woolly question - what is 'more modern flexible process and procedure?"

"275”, “Not if this involves cutting out the parental , i.e. School Board involvement in this procedure."

"276”, “Unable to answer - I would firstly like to speak to a teacher to discuss the present system in order to comment."

"277”, “No it needs to be formal for such important positions.  This needs to involve the parents, as at present through the School Boards.  If it is formal then there can be no complaints of bias, or inappropriate selection."

"278”, “There is room for a more flexible approach in the present system.  The present system is very geared towards the 45 minute interview.  This is good for those with good interviewing skills, which doesn't always mean the right Head Teacher for the job.  Perhaps a more open-ended and comprehensive approach is required.  We are happy to let the experts in these fields guide our thinking."

"279”, “Yes - but only if it does not place additional burdens on the Authority."

"280”, “"

"281”, “"

"282”, “No.  It works.  Leave it alone."

"283”, “Without identifying the ""outdated and inflexible processes"" being alluded to in the question, this is difficult to answer.  The current proves implementation, in our experience, could and should be significantly improved to better advise the role of parental representation within the process.  Review of the size of interview panels and the role of local councillors should be carried out."

"284”, “Majority (3) replied Yes - as long as they are simple; transparent and weighted towards qualities already demonstrated at the chalk face. - dependent on what is recommended.  Minority (1) replied No.
Other comment was -.... is  not becoming too flexible ?"

"285”, “"

"286”, “NB It is the view of (our) school board that these questions are too prescriptive in nature and do not give an opportunity to address some fundamental matters raised by the proposed new bill as drafted.  Please see our response in the additional comments box."

"287”, “Is this what it's all about ?"

"288”, “No"

"289”, “"

"290”, “"

"291”, “We, as a school board, representing the views of parents whose children attend (our)Primary School, are unanimously rejecting the new proposal, and are against abolishment of the Scottish School Board 1988 Act."

"292”, “"

"293”, “"

"294”, “We believe that the present system of parental representation on appointment panels is working. If a new flexible system 'waters down' parental input to appointing senior staff in schools, we would be against this."

"295”, “I believe that education authorities should have a modem, professional, flexible processes and procedures when appointing Headteachers and depute Headteachers but that does not mean that School Boards or Parental Forums need be excluded from the process. What I do not agree with is the statement made by Mr Armstrong, SEED at the Partnership with Parents Conference on the 8th December that School Boards involvement in these appointments are holding back these new and modem leadership initiatives."

"296”, “"

"297”, “Yes"

"298”, “"

"299”, “"

"300”, “"

"301”, “"

"302”, “"

"303”, “"

"304”, “Education authorities should be encouraged to continue developing and evolving the current appointment systems for Headteachers and deputy Headteachers. Recognised parental involvement should continue in order to facilitate a breadth of experience and to encourage parental involvement in this aspect of school development.
"

"305”, “"

"306”, “We cannot answer this due to insufficient info on present situation

"

"307”, “"

"308”, “"

"309”, “"

"310”, “Not being wholly familiar with the appointments process it is difficult to comment, but it would be a good idea to retain some involvement of parents in this process.  This may mean that there should be guidance from the Authority and the Teaching Unions to enable parents to be involved helpfully."

"311”, “While the current system may benefit from some modernising, parents must continue to be involved in the process for permanent and temporary appointments of senior staff."

"312”, “"

"313”, “"

"314”, “Yes - but via the School Board as this is a representation of the parents."

"315”, “No"

"316”, “It is not possible to answer this without further clarification."

"317”, “More clarification needed regarding '...more modern, flexible processes and procedures'  Current system could be more flexible but details needs to be clarified."

"318”, “No"

"319”, “No - the position if not overseen by an independent member (School Board) does not give any conflict of interest or some say nepotism from the teaching fraternity."

"320”, “Another example of 'tweaking' the School Boards Act including no set questions, school staff should be involved in interview process and parents on panel should be given candidates' CVs"

"321”, “Yes so long as built on existing practice.  Parents must be involved in all the process."

"322”, “That depends on the flexible processes and procedures.  The system needs to be approved by the teachers' representatives re their unions."

"323”, “No the appointment of a Head Teacher is the most important feature in a schools development.  The existing processes must be maintained to ensure that the best quality of Head Teacher is appointed to the schools."

"324”, “We are content with the present system.  Cannot comment on other processes and procedures if these are not detailed."

"325”, “Yes"

"326”, “While we welcome modernisation, we would wish to retain facility for parental involvement in appointment of SMT in schools."

"327”, “Without further details, certainly not."

"328”, “Good experience of current processes and would not want change without prior knowledge of what the changes entailed."

"329”, “No - we favour the existing system - professional (with a small p) should be set and in no way changed - i.e. ""The existing procedure is of the highest quality""."

"330”, “Depends on alternatives suggested."

"331”, “Parents should be part of the system of appointing Head Teachers and Depute Head Teachers."

"332”, “If this relates to the role of the Board (usually involving the chair and possibly other members) in the appointment of HTs and DHTs, then the current system should remain.  This is an area of direct involvement of parents in the running of the school at the highest level."

"333”, “Yes.  As long as parent forums are involved in the process, which requires more than being told about appointments of staff after the event."

"334”, “It sound reasonable and sensible if they really are outdated."

"335”, “Status quo."

"336”, “Cannot comment without more knowledge of new processes."

"337”, “No - leave as it is"

"338”, “Yes - including proper input from parents via School Board."

"339”, “Don't know."

"340”, “"

"341”, “We believe that the present system of parental representation on appointment panels is working.  If a new flexible system 'waters down' parental involvement to appointing senior staff in schools, we would be against this."

"342”, “Parents should have some involvement in the selection of all staff."

"343”, “We do not see any problem with this - as long as members of the School Board retain their current rights to be involved in short leeting and to be part of the interview panel - with a vote."

"344”, “We require further information on what exactly is being proposed."

"345”, “The current appointment procedures for head teachers and deputies may indeed not be fully adequate today - however this proposal provides no specific detail on any proposed changes and therefore cannot be properly assessed.  This lack of detail and general vagueness of Section 11 leads to significant concern.  It is also alarming that there is currently no mention of any provision for local education authorities to seek the agreement of parent forums for their new arrangements."

"346”, “Build on existing practice then take account of improvements afforded by Parent Forums.
There needs to be direct involvement and a physical presence of parents.
Parents should be involved in all the process.
At least ""representation' if not 'involvement'
The necessity to inform is not enough; appointment at present is a one- sided procedure. There should be two-way accountability.
The answer to Question 20 is Yes; provided that it is built from the present existing position."

"347”, “It is impossible to answer this question without knowing what the more modern processes might be ....
What needs to be retained is the current right of School Boards to act as a direct participant in the interview process for senior school staff."

"348”, “It's difficult to respond to this without knowing what any new process would look like. Currently it is a statutory duty of the School Board and we would like to see their involvement in such appointments continued and be enshrined in legislation. The appointment process should also though clearly reflect modem best practice and the Authority need to build in Board involvement at the most appropriate stage i.e. the two things (Board involvement and modem practice) do not have to be mutually exclusive! "

"349”, “More modern. flexible processes and procedures for appointing Head Teachers and Deputy Head Teachers are welcomed.  With an increasing focus on the importance of leadership and the requirement for leadership qualifications, it is important that the appointment process is suited to the current needs of schools.  The parent forum should be represented within this process, with the nature of involvement at the discretion of the local authority.  There are particular issues of concern for the Roman Catholic Church in ensuring appropriate faith representation in future appointment procedures for senior staff. "

"350”, “We are supportive of this suggestion.  It would appear that some education authorities are already embracing more modern, flexible appointment processes and procedures.  It is vitally important that best practice is identified, in both the public and private sectors, and actively promoted. We have a concern that the Scottish Executive may 'impose' centralised requirements, when this is another area where education authorities require a degree of flexibility to address local circumstances by reflecting the actual management structures in schools.  Not all senior staff within schools are now traditional educationalists, with for example Business Managers and Community Integration Co-ordinators becoming far more common appointments."

"351”, “"

"352”, “"

"353”, “"

"354”, “No.  The education authority is the employer, they are the professionals and are paid as such.  By all means have a parent representative, but this should not be the majority.  We need to keep this clean and tidy as a process and not allow parent power to rule or backfire. "

"355”, “We have no experience of current procedures in order to comment but would say that procedures should not be changed to give parent forums any less rights than boards in the selection of new head teachers and their deputies. "

"356”, “"

"357”, “We found that the current system works very effectively.  SB involvement means that parents and the community are consulted. "

"358”, “Yes, but see response to Q.21 below."

"359”, “"

"360”, “Yes"

"361”, “- The bill makes point about Head Teacher selection process which indicates Minister could influence selection criteria.  Minister might say don't want parents involved and all sorts etc which means this is forced on selection board.  Selection of Head Teacher must relate not only to ability of candidate but need of school.
- Do not agree that any changes are required.
- System works.
- Present procedures should be strengthened and extended to all recruitment of staff in all schools.
- Inappropriate for a large body to be involved in selection processes."

"362”, “NO.  The Appointment system as it exists has developed over time to the present modern flexible process.  School Boards too have modernised and matured dramatically over the past 16 years.  The current procedure for appointment of Headteachers and deputy headteachers serves well, with a panel of 4 including 2 School Board members, local councillor and education official.  If this arrangement ceased, it could lead to appointments from a local authority short list, regardless of suitability to the school community.  Such important appointments must be agreed locally with parent representation as applies now."

"363”, “"

"364”, “"

"365”, “"

"366”, “N / A"

"367”, “"

"368”, “"

"369”, “Modern? Flexible? What does this mean exactly.  Until these are defined, impossible to answer."

"370”, “Don't know."

"371”, “The existing process works well however improvements could be made to the initial selection process to extend it from panel interviews to test other skills not picked up by interviews alone."

"372”, “Look more closely at current system before making blanket changes."

"373”, “N/A"

"374”, “Yes - 5 groups - on capability rather than single interview, as long as continued involvement, involve forum from start of process
No - 1 group - national standard agreed by consultation"

"375”, “Yes - but parental involvement is still necessary."

"376”, “If it works why change it."

"377”, “We are quite new members to the Board and have as yet not been involved in appointments and therefore feel we do not have enough knowledge in this area to comment."

"378”, “Whilst evolution and improvement of systems is always worthwhile, the system works quite well at the moment."

"379”, “We do not see any problem with this - as long as members of the School Board retain their current rights to be involved in short leeting, and to be part of the interview panel- with a vote."

"380”, “Yes - more specific details required?"

"381”, “It is already difficult to recruit new students to the teaching profession without changing the promotion structure and it is impossible to comment on this adequately without knowing what ""modern, flexible processes"" you have in mind."

"382”, “Depends on what the processes and procedures are.  Parents representatives should always be involved."

"383”, “It is important to have appropriate modern procedures in place to appoint promoted posts and parental involvement is essential."

"384”, “Yes"

"385”, “"

"386”, “"

"387”, “Yes - but obviously any new procedures must reflect best practice in employment law."

"388”, “Not enough information available to make a decision."

"389”, “Further consultation/information would be required."

"390”, “Parity and process are essential.  Anything new would need to have the same guarantees."

"391”, “Yes - but question 2 implies that these 'more modern flexible processes and procedures' do not include parental involvement.  Surely these new procedures can include parental involvement?"

"392”, “I am unclear as to how effective or not the previous system was."

"393”, “Yes - we do need more up-to-date appointing systems perhaps modelled on good practice in Human Resources Teams specialising in recruitment."

"394”, “I think any changes must retain parental involvement as a balance."

"395”, “It is important there is still parental involvement."

"396”, “Important to have parental involvement but what do you mean 'modern, flexible processes'?"

"397”, “"

"398”, “Like what? You need to have people involved at a certain level so that they understand what is happening.  Answer is no!."

"399”, “Need to know more about 'modern flexible processes and procedures before I can give my opinion on this question."

"400”, “Possibly"

"401”, “No"

"402”, “Difficult to know without more information.  Parental involvement should remain within the process."

"403”, “"

"404”, “We are extremely sceptical of the intention of the proposals behind this question  and question 21.  The present system of involvement of School Board members in the appointment of Head Teachers and deputy Head Teachers works very well........  This included membership of interview panels and the right, guided by an education officer and where appropriate the Head Teacher, to take a full and equal part in the decision the panel reaches.  Several parent members of our Board have taken part in this process and have found it an effective on taken seriously by all participants. We are strongly against any dilution of such direct involvement."

"405”, “Yes.  Provided there is full involvement with the School Board, before, during and after the interview process.
"

"406”, “The process should be changed, while retaining the role of the parent body in the selection.  We have no objection to devolving the responsibility to the education authority.
"

"407”, “Yes, we would agree to an updating of the appointment system, providing the current role of parent representation within this system is maintained and not downgraded in importance in any way. There must be a recognised way of including parents within the appointment procedures for new Head and Deputy Head Teachers, although this may be more difficult to formalise if we have an infinite variety of Forum structures. Parents understand the identity and needs of the school more intimately than the LEA managers and must be included in this crucial procedure. Also, Forums will be more likely to form a good working partnership with a Head if they have been involved in the selection."

"408”, “"

"409”, “Authorities should be allowed to adapt working practices in relation to this but always maintaining the status currently enjoyed by School Board members in the process with no diminishment of their role."

"410”, “"

"411”, “"

"412”, “Proposals for the future involvement of the Parent Forum in appointment of senior staff should be made clear.
"

"413”, “"

"414”, “Blank"

"415”, “"

"416”, “"

"417”, “"

"418”, “"

"419”, “One assumes that senior staff are recruited using the same methods as for other local authority staff i.e. adverts, short listing, interviewing, and selection of the preferred candidate.  Parental involvement in the final selection is crucial but is it difficult to understand what is meant by a ""more modern, flexible process and procedures""."

"420”, “"

"421”, “"

"422”, “"

"423”, “No. The existing right of the School Board to give specific instructions to the local authority on Senior Management appointments and the other roles of the Board including participation in lets and the right to suggest the post is re-advertised should remain."

"424”, “No - Current system in (our Region) is professional, effective and respected by those in teaching profession, however current system should be evaluated from an HR perspective.  Additionally there should be ONE single system nationally."

"425”, “"

"426”, “Some clarification necessary here as to the phrase more modem, flexible processes and
procedures.""
Generally agree that the current system could be more flexible. We want a workable process however as its crucial for a representative from a Parent Group to be present whilst appointing staff."

"427”, “yes"

"428”, “We are supportive of this suggestion.
It would appear that some education authorities are already embracing more modern, flexible appointment processes and procedures. It is vitally important that best practice is identified, in both the public and private sectors, and actively promoted.

We have a concern that the Scottish Executive may 'impose' centralized requirements, when this is another area where education authorities require a degree of flexibility to address local circumstances by reflecting the actual management structures in schools. Not all senior staff within schools are now traditional educationalists, with for example Business Managers and Community Integration Co-ordinators becoming far more common appointments.
"

"429”, “The current system should be capable of updating in the light of modern practice."

"430”, “We agree that the current single interview procedure of selection for Head teachers and Deputy Head Teachers should be replaced.  A system should be put in place, which relates to that which currently pertains in industry.  We consider that in any system introduced it is essential that parents should continue to be involved in final selection."

"431”, “We do not feel that we have sufficient information to comment meaningfully on this question.  Prior to committing to an opinion, we would like to see research into any practical difficulties arising from the current process - analogous to that provided by SEED / George Street Research for Parental Involvement - followed up by meaningful consultation. We would like such an opinion to become formed and be taken into account, however!"

"432”, “As long as this is an improvement on what is already in place and is fair."

"433”, “Don't know"

"434”, “The Board believes that the principle of parental involvement should be retained in the senior appointments process by parent forums.  Parents should be involved in the direction of the school and given the opportunity to satisfy themselves in regard to the suitability of candidates.  Such representation will also ensure that the person appointed has an understanding and awareness of parental views and of the ethos of the school before accepting the position."

"435”, “Methods in place are already more modem and flexible in comparison to the old methods where the education service simply appointed Head teachers without consulting with parental representation.  Such rules should be discussed with those affected by them. What changes exactly are being proposed?
Basically, the lack of detail in this proposal renders it difficult to comment on.
"

"436”, “Yes, as long as authorities retain their existing say in the process and school boards continue to play their existing role."

"437”, “Agree, with provisions.
- We do not accept the use of the word 'involvement'.  For example, advising the Parent Forum that the selection process would happen on a given date, could be construed as 'involvement'.
- Parent representation of at least the same level as at present, and within the rules of fair selection, must be retained.
"

"438”, “The existing arrangements are generally satisfactory.  Training for any interviewing panel members is vital & exists under the existing arrangements.  There is room to improve appointment/selection skills training without abolishing the School Boards."

"439”, “Yes however we would like to see continued involvement of parents in this process."

"440”, “No.  We feel that the current process in (our Region) works well and should not be replaced.  It is already modern and flexible."

"441”, “Yes"

"442”, “Yes"

"443”, “"

"444”, “"

"445”, “"

"446”, “Yes"

"447”, “Yes - but still should have a parent rep involved."

"448”, “"

"449”, “Current situation not perfect but as good as we can see."

"450”, “Current system could do with a review, but parents should be involved."

"451”, “Depends on what the processes and procedures are."

"452”, “"

"453”, “Yes"

"454”, “?"

"455”, “"

"456”, “"

"457”, “Yes"

"458”, “Yes"

"459”, “Yes, current system needs updating but the right of appointed parent forum members be involved in appointment process."

"460”, “No.  It is important that the school boards local knowledge and advice IS involved in appointing head teachers, etc."

"461”, “No.  What's wrong with the present system.  What does "modern, flexible" mean ?"

"462”, “Blank"

"463”, “Which are ?"

"464”, “We find the status quo satisfactory."

"465”, “Our current system OK."

"466”, “Yes - but a level of consultation for parents"

"467”, “Yes"

"468”, “No !"

"469”, “Yes"

"470”, “Yes - but why not have consultation on above as part of current consultation."

"471”, “Yes - current system is out of date with modern appointment procedures in industry etc."

"472”, “Status quo is satisfactory.  Under no circumstance should parents lead an interview panel."

"473”, “Yes, without making the process too lengthy or complicated."

"474”, “While it is hard to deny that the current arrangements are inadequate, the lack of detail on this specific proposal is a significant concern.  Strangely, there is no requirement that Education Authorities would seek the agreement of Parent Forums for their new arrangements."

"475”, “We agree that representatives from the education authority, head teachers and the unions should work together on this."

"476”, “Can they not do this already ?"

"477”, “Yes - but clear guidance is needed for the role school board forums would have."

"478”, “Only if the new system is truly improved and still has the involvement of the school board members!  Having been involved in this process recently, we feel this involvement is crucial to allow parents to be involved in the decision of the appointment of these critical positions and to ensuring that their voices are heard to allow that appointment to be stresses the needs of their particular school."

"479”, “I think that the parents must have a say in appointing Headteachers and deputy-heads through the elected representatives as is the case with school boards."

"480”, “In theory, yes.  But more information is needed on what the current  system would be replaced with."

"481”, “Important that parents be involved in appointing head teachers or deputy teachers."

"482”, “More details would be required before I would feel comfortable with answering this question fully."

"483”, “This depends on what the more modern process and procedures are ! ! !"

"484”, “Some improvement to the process would be welcome."

"485”, “Don't know - no details."

Parent Forums - Draft Bill