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Section 4 - Other Parental Involvement Options
Combined Parent Councils
Section 16 of the Act allows the members of the Parent Forum of two or more schools to form a Combined Parent Council. Where a combined council exists then parental representation for all stages of the appointment process outlined above should be drawn from it.
Where schools are combining or merging, for example as the result of a new school build, then it may be that an "interim" Combined Parent Council is set up until such time as the move into the new premises occurs. It is intended that any "interim" Combined Parent Council should be consulted on the procedures for appointing senior staff to the new school.
If a selection exercise is deemed necessary representation in the appointment process should be drawn from the Combined Parent Council.
The Combined Parent Council should be invited to participate, but should determine whether it wishes to do so.
Where No Parent Council Exists
Where no Parent Council exists, the authority is under no statutory obligation to invite parental representation. However we would encourage authorities to invite parental representation from the wider parent forum or from an authority parent network where one exists. The absence of a Parent Council, at a particular school, whilst regrettable, must not unnecessarily delay the processes. Authorities are therefore encouraged to seek participation within a locally agreed timescale. In the case of no-one wishing to participate on behalf of the Parent Forum or Parent Network, the authority should continue with the selection process drawing membership of the panel from the authority side only.
Local Authority Parent Networks
The appointment of a Headteacher or Deputy Headteacher is a significant one for any school and the wider community it serves. Many local authorities currently have informal networks of parents. This practice has distinct benefits by offering the opportunity to discuss wider education issues and authorities are encouraged to develop an informal structure which might include participation in the appointment procedures for Headteacher and Depute Headteacher posts.
There may be merit in having a pool of parents, drawn from the local authority parent network, trained in the appointments process. Their role might include:
- offering advice and guidance to Parent Councils on recruitment matters;
- being involved in developing the authority - wide appointment strategies;
- facilitating training events for Parent Council representatives; and
- participating in sifting and selection appointment procedures.
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