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4 preparation and entry
As preparation for undertaking a flexible approach and as part of the PRD process potential candidates should be developing their leadership skills by taking forward school-based projects. They should also begin to self evaluate against the Standard for Headship ( SfH). Only candidates who have the necessary experience, and are ready and capable should make an application to undertake this approach. They will indicate their readiness by demonstrating their commitment to leadership development, and their capability by the extent to which they have the necessary skills, knowledge and support to develop and implement their plan. Local authorities will ensure that there are common entry points and equality of access for candidates regardless of whether they follow the SQH or flexible approach. Advice and guidance on preparation for leadership can be found in the publication Continuing Professional Development for Educational Leaders. Exceptionally some very experienced candidates may be able to move through their professional development more quickly. However, they will be subject to the same assessment process as all other candidates.
PRINCIPLES | EXAMPLES OF PRACTICE |
Experienced
- candidates should have at least 5 years' classroom experience and be effective teachers | - Undertaking 360 degree review or other feedback process 1, and initiating change in response to feedback
- Developing and sharing excellent practice
- Coaching and mentoring others
|
Informed and ready
- candidates should have undertaken a range of experiences which enable them to begin to further develop leadership skills in relation to the SfH | - Successfully leading/making substantial contribution to small-scale school or authority projects
- Leading and developing others
- Undertaking and implementing a range of leadership development courses ( e.g. Introduction to Leadership, Leading Teams, Managing Budgets, etc.)
- Using the SfH, CPD for Educational Leaders and other publications to develop a comprehensive range of leadership skills
- Reading, study and evidence of impact
- Action research project
- Associate assessor with HMIE
|
Evidencing professional growth
- candidates should submit to their LA a portfolio and application which illustrates their professional growth as a leader | - Personal reflective practice and commentary
- Critical commentary of structured reading programme
- Reflection on courses, seminars, conferences etc.
- Evidence of impact on professional practice
|
Sponsored
- candidates should have the full support of their LA and their headteacher | - Letter of support outlining readiness from headteacher or other school leader
- Robust selection procedures, using the SfH, led by LAs or employer and consistent across Scotland
|
1 Feedback processes - These allow candidates feedback from people they interact with (line manager, teaching colleagues, support staff, colleagues from other public services areas, parents and pupils) and who have knowledge of the candidates from a variety of perspectives. The SfH itself provides a good basis for a personal or 360 degree or other feedback process and can be used in tandem with the PRD process to enrich a candidate's professional development plan.
Questions
Are the entry principles correct?
Are there aspects of the proposal which would benefit from more clarity or guidance?
Should there be a common application process regardless of approach?
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