Schools are under intense pressure to improve. Most departments respond positively to the challenges, but in every school there are areas of weakness which don't seem to get better and adversely affect the school's results. These areas of underperformance won't get better on their own. This course is designed to give delegates some techniques for approaching 'well defended' colleagues, skills in negotiating for improvement and the confidence to address the more challenging areas of underperformance in their schools and departments.
Aims of the course are to:
* Learn how to apply conflict management skills to challenging situations of underperformance
* Develop their listening and critical feedback skills
* Use data to clarify the need for improvement
* Acquire a "tool box" of techniques and strategies
* Consider how to negotiate meaningful targets and contract for improvement
* Explore how to link this process with effective use of formal procedures

An important aim of the day is to develop confidence in the practical skills of addressing and overcoming the sensitive issues surrounding underperformance. The day will be active and hands on.