Endorsed consultants to support boards

Endorsed consultants to support boards

NZSTA’s new Human Resources team has called for expressions of interest from independent consultants wishing to be endorsed by NZSTA to work with boards of trustees on principal appointment and performance management (appraisal). A pilot scheme has been running since late 2014.

Boards often ask NZSTA for recommendations when they are looking for an independent consultant to assist them with principal performance reviews and appointments, says NZSTA President, Lorraine Kerr. It is often difficult for a board to know who has the right skills and experience to match their school’s needs. Establishing a pool of endorsed consultants is a direct response to these requests. The endorsements give boards confidence that advisers they employ to assist with key HR processes have the knowledge and expertise to promote successful appointments and performance reviews.

NZSTA confirms that each consultant adheres to the legislative requirements for the education sector and demonstrates excellent practice such as working collaboratively, communicating well with boards and following clear and effective processes, before endorsing them. References from boards the consultants have previously worked with is an important component of the screening process.

“We have known for some time that while some boards have the expertise internally to manage these processes well, many boards need and want reliable external advice,” Ms Kerr says. “It’s a complex and specialized process.

“We are looking forward to working with other sector groups such as SPANZ, NZPF, NZSPC and NZTC as well as the Ministry to ensure that the endorsement process works well and is well understood. Our principals are professional people who deserve robust professional processes from their employer.”

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