Our school received today a set of Government inspired targets for
examination result improvements over the next 3 years. For example, the
percentage of our 15-16 year olds who gain 5 or more passes should
increase by 6%. There are a number of similar targets each of which
specifies a minimum improvement for the school within that 3 year period.
My problem is that these externally imposed targets have the potential to
reaffirm teachers perceptions that they are not in a position of self
determination and that a 'Theory X' style of management, which regards the
workforce as essentially untrustworthy and in need of external control, is
in predominance.
I have no real difficulties with the targets myself and feel confident we
can satisfy them by helping teachers to learn and grow. However, in
moving from a perceived culture of control to one where personal
commitment drives the school such an imposed change has the potential to
set our progress right back to the beginning.
My question is, "How do I introduce the concept of targets (which are
completely alien to Scottish education) in a way in which teachers can
feel in control and not react to them in a negative manner which might
then necessitate an imposition from us, as managers?"
I am coming round to an open appeal to a small group of Heads of
Department for help in fulfilling our school's commitment. Perhaps by
giving them some ownership of the problem at the earliest stages we can
create an atmosphere where management and staff work together in a
positive and collegial manner. I know some might accuse me of opting out
but I believe it would actually be easier (in the short term) to just
present the targets at a staff meeting and then set individual targets for
each department. We have a staff meeting planned for next Wednesday where
members of the school's development plan group are to present the
rationale for our long term stragegy for change within which the 1998 -
2000 development plan is set. If we can give the staff ownership of the
actions which will be necessary to overtake the imposed targets we have a
chance of establishing a change in culture which will go well beyond the
next two years.
I will welcome any observations or suggestions.
Thanks
Don Ledingham
--DLedingham <DLedingham@aol.com>
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