The assessment centre was a new initiative, but th...

2005-08-11T21:13:00.000Z

The assessment centre was a new initiative, but the feedback was very useful. However, I don't feel we allowed the LEA to change our minds at any stage or to exert any bad influence; simply that they have experience and we don't, so we seek their advice. Of course we made our own decision - and it's one I stand by.

You're quite right about keeping the paperwork, we were required to hand it in for safe keeping by the LEA.

I honestly haven't noticed any political manoeuvring - and sincerely hope you are wrong on that count, in that it won't rear its head, because that would indeed make it hard to do our jobs as governors.

Very strange way to interview a headteacher (I hav...

2005-08-11T19:19:00.000Z

Very strange way to interview a headteacher (I have done 3 head's panels)! What on earth was the assessment centre going to tell you that you couldn't have worked out yourself. Reading all your comments on this, I suspect that the panel allowed the LEA more influence and decision making than is usual in my authority and was particularly concerned to see how your thoughts were changed by the adviser's comments on what they would look for. Also any paperwork actually filled in (including your matrix grid) is required to be kept in case of a challenge from an unsuccessful candidate regarding the interview process and for that very reason, most panels keep paperwork to a minimum.

Strikes me that you are highly likely to be a London borough with a history of political manouevering by your authority and no real independance for governors.

Comments on Tales from an inner city school governor: Recruiting a new Head, part 2

The assessment centre was a new initiative, but th...

Very strange way to interview a headteacher (I hav...