I was pleased with how the presentation went today and the group provided some really useful feedback. One of the things that came up with regard to the presentation itself was that using 'pupil voice' feedback to provide qualitative data would have been a useful addition. Other people modelled this well in their presentations and, having seen it used to showcase progress today, I'd definitely utilise this methodology in the future.
Another thing that was fed back was that it would have been more effective if I'd pitched my presentation to the governors as this would have been likely to improve the bid for the Accelerated Reader programme. Approaching governors is an option I'll strongly consider if there's any additional funding required.
The group were enthusiastic about the Accelerated Reader programme and also suggested that departmental representatives would increase the likelihood of success. This would allow me to further satisfy my developmental goals of working outside my department and delegating, as well as 'future focus' and 'inspiring others' from the level one and two leadership competencies.
Explaining the Accelerated Reader programme in a staff meeting was also suggested as a method of developing the project. This would have the advantage of helping progress tutors to better support learners because they would know key information for implementing it, such as how books were differentiated, for example. It was also voiced that this would also be an area where I would be likely to encounter some conflict and reluctance with complaints about workload. To manage this, I would try to model through example and re-iterate the benefits for staff as well as learners, which was a conflict resolution strategy modeled effectively at the session today.
The final suggestion was that pictures of male members of staff reading could be added to displays to supplement the celebrities already pictured. These 'closer to home' role-models could help to create a more positive perception of reading for boys in particular, linking to Gary Wilson's idea of the importance of fostering an atmosphere of 'caring masculinity'.
Overall, I've enjoyed the Developing Leaders course and have benefited greatly from having been given time to reflect on my professional practice. Thanks to everyone involved, in particular Matt and Deb, who have given up lots of their time to share their expertise.
