Question
The Headteacher and the chair of governors have fallen out. What do we do?
Answer
You have to first establish the reason for the dispute. If the dispute is personal, where the matter springs from a fundamental difference in personality or expectations, the services of an arbiter could help.
If the breakdown lies elsewhere, is specific to the running of the school or the relationship between the Head and the Governing. Body, could it be resolved informally through the governing body, or is the matter one of misconduct that should be referred to the schools formal procedures, i.e. grievance and discipline?
If the matter is in regard of the Head’s capability, have you now reached the position where formal action is required? If so, has any contact been made with the Local Authority who should be made aware of the situation and should offer help?
Bear in mind the style of the head's management may not be what you would like it to be, but if the school is generally well run, parents may be unwilling to complain and you should be prepared to allow some latitude where the Head is providing a high level of educational achievement. However, it may be that the Head is having difficulties in one or more aspects of school leadership and a different view could be important. You should consider seeking the views of your SIP, in confidence to help in establishing an independent perspective on the matter.
It is important to take things a step at a time and information that confirms the true position is important. Establishing what is the basis of the problem is the first step to resolving it and the nature of the problem will point the way to a solution.
Some other points to consider:
- Is the level of challenge and support offered by the Local Authority adequate?
- Is the relationship between the Headteacher and the Local Authority all that it might be?
- Is the relationship between the Governing Body and the LA all that it should be?
- Could / should the Governing Body supplement the service by offering additional support to the Head?
- Is the relationship between the Governing Body and the Local Governor Support service all that it might be?
This guidance was updated in August 2009.
Call GovernorLine on 08000 722 181 or you can e-mail us from this site.
