RECRUITMENT & RETENTION

As skilled teacher and teaching assistant shortages become increasingly acute over the next five years, issues of recruitment and retention will move higher up the agenda of headteachers and governing bodies.

As the circumstances of individual schools vary so greatly, there is no simple success formula when it comes to turning yourself into the local employer of choice. There are, however, some key ingredients to consider

• Making sure you have a work/life balance policy that is proactive in addressing workload and lifestyle issues
  
  
• Being prepared to introduce flexible working practices
  
  
• Providing clear and supportive career development paths
  
  
• Using the flexibility contained in relevant Pay & Conditions documents to reward excellent performance - eg by double increments pre-threshold or annual UPS progression
  
  
• Making recruitment and retention payments in line with clear Pay Policy criteria adopted after consultation with staff and unions

Because local issues vary so greatly, we do not offer set piece Recruitment and Retention courses - but work instead either with individual schools or with groups of schools. Our consultants have access to advice from experienced LA HR officers with a reputation for robustness, and so are in a position to support you in the development of the school policies you will need.

Recruitment & Retention consultancy costs £750 for a half day session and £1250 for a full day (all costs plus travel, accommodation if necessary and VAT)