Transfer 2010 - NAHT(NI) Advice to Members
For some considerable time now we have watched the transfer procedure debate with varying degrees of amazement, concern and even alarm. NAHT has long recognised this is no longer an educational issue, rather, it is a political one. Unfortunately no political solution is in sight and so it appears that schools must face the mire of deregulation.
For primary schools this may mean being caught between parental and departmental expectations with the associated concerns surrounding legal action coming from a variety of directions. For post primary schools it may lead to legal challenges in connection with admissions criteria, admissions decisions and testing. For both sectors, job security may be a rising spectre. Furthermore, it is not clear if employing authorities will provide support to governors to resist legal challenges.
This is an intolerable position for schools to find themselves in when all they have sought to do is faithfully meet the needs of our children. The political process which has led us to this point has failed miserably. Even at this late juncture, NAHT would call upon our political leaders to seek a consensus position and thus provide true leadership.
In the meantime, as school leaders, we are left to plot the best course available to us for our children.
NAHT advises the following:
· Teachers are contractually required to implement the Revised Curriculum.
· Parents, particularly those with children in Year 6, should be reassured that the school will continue to provide a relevant and appropriate curriculum for all children within the legal requirements of the Revised Curriculum. In this context, Year 7 children will be well prepared for any curricular challenge they may face.
· Local discussions between primary and post primary schools may be helpful to clarify exactly what is happening in each area.
· Principals should discuss their school’s situation with the governors and teaching staff and seek to agree the way forward for the school.
· If a principal is unhappy with the instructions given by a board of governors he/she should contact the NAHT and advise the governors to seek the advice of the employing authority.
· Schools cannot be required to provide administrative services for other schools outside the established transfer procedure operated by the ELBs.
The NAHT is confident that members will always act in the best interests of children. We are here to provide advice, support and represent school leaders and will continue to do so.
Any member needing help should contact our office 02890776633.
