www.southwark.gov.uk

Using School-Based Action Research in

School Improvement; 2 case studies

Workshop Session for Headteachers

Dany Thomas & Madeleine DanaherNovember 2014

www.southwark.gov.uk

Introduction

• School based action research

• Outline of the ‘Preparation for Deputy Headship’ course

• 2 case studies

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School Based Action Research – what is it?

• Taking action to improve an aspect of school practice plus systematic study of the action and its consequences

• Typically designed and conducted by practitioners who analyse a range of data from their schools to improve practice

• A type of applied research

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Action Research – some aspects to consider

• Individual or collaborative?

• Data gathering methods

• Key questions

• Golden rules for selecting a topic

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Preparation for Deputy Headship

Objectives• To prepare for the challenges of deputy

headship • To identify the skills and qualities necessary

for success in the post• To support reflection and identify strengths

and personal objectives for development• To prepare for application and interview

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Course Overview

• The role of the Deputy Headteacher, including:• effective leadership• Refelction on personal strengths and areas for development• Presentation by a Head and Deputy from a Southwark school

• Effective school improvement, including:• data analysis, self-evaluation and Ofsted

• Evaluating and improving teaching and learning• Effective observation and feedback

• Using the Pupil Premium effectively• Funding, accountability and identifying good practice

• Preparation for interview• School improvement project and presentation• Work shadowing opportunities• Next steps

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School Improvement Project

• Linked to – Key school improvement priorities– Personal/professional objectives

• Initial planning• Present project outline following discussion/

confirmation in school– Discussion and refinement in the group

• Updates on progress • Presentation of findings to the group

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Impact of School Improvement Project

• Individual• Knowledge and understanding• Pedagogy • Professional development

• School• Pupils• Colleagues• School practice

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Two Case Studies

1. Hannah Baker, Crampton Primary

2. Zohra Benotmane, Snowsfields Primary