The Key publishes top concerns for school leaders

Released 14/02/2012

Top five questions asked by primary and secondary schools released in the Key’s trends report

The Key's trends report for January 2012 highlights some of the top concerns school leaders have raised this month

The report reveals some new concerns raised by school leaders in the last month.

The “interesting new questions” covered by the report are as follows:

Can the DfE force schools to become academies?

The report outlines the legislation which allows the secretary of state to make an academy order. It also explains which schools may be eligible for this intervention and refers to a case where a school challenged it and takes a look at some reactions to the policy.

Can we serve food made by pupils to the public?

Advice is given from the Food Standards Agency and a local authority, including information on food hygiene and preparation. Also included are links to tips for running a successful fundraising cake stall.

Should we allow the local police to look at a student record?

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) says that schools do not have to release information unless it is 'justifiable and with good reason'. Guidance on information sharing from the ICO and DfE is highlighted.

Must academies comply with LA requests to pay towards union facilities?

The YPLA says academies do not have to pay their local authority for trade union facilities; many academies have successfully negotiated agreements with their local unions. The report has links to guidance from unions and an LAAs a community school.

What should schools do when parents make unjustified, abusive statements about them via social networking sites?

A spokesperson from Voice suggests that you write to those posting such material to express concern. You can also ask the site owners to remove it, and in severe cases involve the police.

For more information visit http://www.usethekey.org.uk/

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