Principals' stories about planning and reporting
The first three stories describe approaches to planning and reporting taken by three first-time principals. The second and third stories include relevant information from Education Review Office (ERO) reports. These stories all represent schools showing evidence of acceptable approaches to planning and reporting.
Two stories from experienced principals are also included. The stories are Word files.
Story 1: Improving literacy in a small rural school
How a small rural school used data to identify a clear strategic priority to improve literacy levels, as well as the value of engaging current staff in the strategic and annual planning process. The actions taken by the school included professional development and a collaborative process whereby the teachers were able to be provided with good feedback on their teaching. The school then committed resources to ensure the ongoing improvement of teaching practices.
Story 2: Using an ERO evaluation in an area school
An ERO evaluation is used to describe a range of actions taken by a first-time principal to focus a school on improving teaching and learning. The importance of information to underpin decision making and targets is highlighted, and ways to improve processes in the school are identified. It also describes how the principal's appraisal can be linked to the school's plans and actions for improving teaching and learning.
Story 3: Using ERO feedback in a small primary school
How an ERO review can assist in identifying areas of good practice as well as some areas for improvement. A concise description is given of the features of a good analysis of variance.
Story 4: School-wide target setting in a large, multicultural primary school
This story, based on the experiences of a medium-sized urban primary school, demonstrates how staff can become engaged in analysing and discussing achievement information and how worthwhile professional conversations and professional development can take place. By initiating and leading this aspect of planning and reporting, principals can work towards building learning organisations.
Story 5: Strengthening the learning community in an urban primary school
How a medium-sized urban primary school has developed its focus on student achievement through school-wide target setting, analysis, and reporting of results. The benefits of school leaders and teachers working collaboratively, the importance of professional development, and how the process informs decision making and planning are evident in this study.
