| Step 2: |
a) carry out a review of current local provision
This will ensure that activities are focused on meeting local needs. In many areas, schools will be able to use findings from existing research such as community consultations and audits. These are often available from local authorities. |
b) consult with pupils, parents and the local community
Some examples are: using focus groups, questionnaires, community surveys, community meetings, evaluation forms, newsletters and drop ins. Again local authorities will be able to advise.
Download the consultation know-how leaflet for more tips. |
| Step 3 — agree goals with local stakeholders and the local authority |
This will ensure that services meet local priorities and are developed on a sustainable basis. Many schools have found it useful to focus on achieving a few specific goals relating to issues of local concern such as improving pupil health, reducing crime or offering more support for working parents.
Creating a mission statement is one approach that can help enable staff, governors, parents, the local authority and partners to define and agree the school's wider family and community vision. |
| Step 4 — identify and plan services |
The practical and financial management of the school and its premises should be reviewed when planning new activities and services. Many adjustments will be relatively easy and organisers can tackle them in ways that are suitable for their school and local area.
The benefits of targeted services should be balanced against the importance of ensuring that services are inclusive. Where appropriate, all pupils, families or members of the community should have the opportunity to benefit from services, irrespective of disability, rural local or ethnic background. |
| Step 5 — measure success/evaluate services |
Schools will need to consider what basic evidence they need to gather to help identify the impact of new activities and services that enable them to gain recognition and support.
Establishing a simple evaluation framework and gathering initial data on the areas identified for improvement will provide 'baseline' data and will make it easier to assess the impact of the new activities and services. This will also help you with your school inspection. Download the evaluation know-how leaflet for more tips and advice. |