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Staff Appraisal System (PPDR)

We have always had a Trust wide system where all our staff had an appraisal meeting in the Autumn term with their Line Managers to discuss targets for development through the year.
 
One of my roles in the Central team is to analyse the responses to the termly staff wellbeing surveys and to discuss the findings with Academy Heads, looking for ways to improve.
 
There was a common negative response across all schools to questions about our existing appraisal system, with staff reporting that it was very 'top down' and didn't really develop them in the ways that they felt they would like and need.
 
Based on these responses, we have had a working party with representatives from across a variety of job roles developing a new appraisal system. We have renamed the process PPDR - standing for Personal and Professional Development Review to reflect the holistic nature of the appraisal.
 
Our vision statement was written around the fact that:

  • We know that by developing and supporting our staff, we, in turn, will be providing the best for our pupils

  • We believe in developing the whole person, both professionally and personally with a holistic approach

  • We believe in the strength of collective responsibility, for the development of pupils, individual staff, local and Trust wide development

  • Wellbeing management forms an integral part of this process

We felt strongly that the learning characteristics that we are working on for the pupils' development are equally relevant for the adults in our Trust community, and they form an important part of the process. Staff are asked to think about which learning characteristics they feel they would like to, or need to, develop.
 
Colleagues are very much in charge of the process and come with ideas and ready to discuss their strengths and areas for development. Line Managers listen and respond with supportive questions and coaching techniques to enable the member of staff to work their ideas into a project, target or body of work.
 
Staff have been trained in coaching and sessions explaining the new process have been held at all schools and settings. It has begun this term so it is too soon to monitor it's success or impact, but early feedback is very positive with colleagues saying that they really value the professional conversations and the appraisee led approach.
 
Sam Davidson,  Head of Service Curriculum

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