Application window re-opened for Fair Workload Charter

Warwickshire schools were invited last term to participate in the Fair Workload Charter Survey which recognises the positive work undertaken in managing teacher workload.

We are pleased to let you know that the window for applying for the Fair Workload Charter has now re-opened and schools interested in participating are invited to email at the earliest opportunity: fairworkloadcharter@warwickshire.gov.uk. Schools registering their interest will then receive a link to the online survey to share with teachers, who should complete this by Friday 12 April 2019.

We are delighted to let you know that five schools were successful in being awarded the charter in the last round of applications:

• Abbey C of E Infant School
• Abbots Farm Junior School
• Clapham Terrace Community Primary School
• Claverdon Primary School
• Michael Drayton Junior School

The charter status will last for 24 months from the date awarded.

This initiative was developed by a working party in partnership with headteachers, WCC and the teacher trade unions to allow schools to enable their teaching staff to comment on the following workload areas:

• general working conditions
• planning and marking expectations
• data collection and communications
• school policies and access to training

Based on the results of the above survey, schools reaching a 90% threshold will be awarded the Fair Workload Charter status. This is a kite mark that can be used in recruitment materials and general communication and promotion of the school. Given the national focus on the effects the management of workload is having on schools and staff sickness absence and turnover, this could be a very powerful recruitment and retention tool for your school or academy trust to use to tackle these challenging issues.

Schools not successful in the spring term will be able to try again in autumn 2019.  There will be a three week window for this process beginning straight after October half term. 

There is a nominal subscription cost to cover administration and the materials of £50 per school.  You will receive detailed feedback after submitting your survey results in order to allow you to action plan accordingly to address those areas which may have prevented you receiving the award upon first attempt.

More information is available (including the survey questions used) in the Fair Workload Charter frequently asked questions.

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