Nothing has changed on TARS

By Jennifer Leete

A number of Federation Organisers have reported increased inquiries and complaints in relation to the implementation of the Teacher Assessment Review Schedule (TARS) in schools.

Generally, these relate to attempts to impose draconian supervisory practices on teachers.

In a number of cases claims were made that Federation agreed to these changes in the award.

The current TARS process dates back to clause 6 of the 2001 Teachers Award. The current award (made in 2004) still contains the exact same wording in clause 6.

Advice on the proper implementation of clause 6 can be found in the Members Area of Federation's website at www.nswtf.org.au/members/fedrep/tars.html

Following the dispute Federation had with the State Government about the Teaching Services Act in 2004, Federation did negotiate new procedures in relation to the application of clause 6 to principals. These are referred to as the Principal Assessment and Review Schedule (PARS). This involves an annual review process conducted by the local school area director. The documentation to be reviewed as part of this process includes "the school's policy for the implementation of the annual teacher assessment and review process".

A possible explanation for a recent spate of inquiries about the matter is that some ham-fisted School Education Directors are seeking to put pressure on principals to put pressure on their staff.

It is worth noting that one of the "major areas of accountability of the Principal" listed in the PARS documentation is "promoting the development of constructive professional relationships amongst staff".

Let's hope School Education Directors implement the PARS process with the same regard to promoting constructive professional relationships.

Jennifer Leete is the Deputy President.

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May 2005 contents