December 2010

The know zone

• Hopes and fears
  Be wary of creating ‘legitimate expectations’ in parents and others, warns Richard Bird, as failure to meet them could lead to unintended consequences. More
• Time to clock off?
  The interim Hutton Report published in October outlined the likely changes in store for public sector pensions. As we await the final report, ASCL is continuing to make the case to ministers that deep cuts to pensions could lead to an exodus of schools leaders. More
• Getting into hot water
  How is a school defined as ‘poor’ in financial terms? Sam Ellis looks for some facts and figures beyond the budget sheets. More
• Lead vocals
  Quotes from Norman Vincent Peale, Alan Alda, and Guillaume Apollinaire More
• An enduring spirit
  A decade ago, ASCL member Sean Crosby – a recently appointed deputy head and active sportsman – had an accident on his mountain bike which was followed by two devastating strokes. With the help of his wife Maria, he talks about coping with his disability and preparing for a 250-mile charity bike ride in India. More
• SPACE TO LEARN
  With more than a quarter of engineers citing outer space as a reason behind their career choice, a new space programme aims to entice more youngsters into science and technology. More
• Adding value
  As we all face up to the harsh reality of reduced spending and investment, it is inevitable that stress levels in the workplace rise. At times like these, the role of the employer in supporting wellbeing becomes even more important. More
• The perfect blend?
  Is the traditional model of school governance out-of-date? Should schools have more say over who sits on the board and for how long? Is it still necessary for parents and the LA to be represented? And should governors be selected for their expertise, rather than elected to the post? School leaders share their views… More
• Leaders' surgery
  The antidote to common leadership conundrums More
• Increased pressure
  It could have been worse... but the spending review will still have far-reaching consequences for the funding of schools and colleges once the dust settles, says Brian Lightman. More
• A head for heights?
  When looking to appoint a new headteacher, governors should throw the recruitment agency advice in the bin. Instead, says David Nicholson, think big and bold. Think Titan. More