National Programme of Training

20th October 2011 | Diocesan Secretaries

National Programme of Training

A national programme of training for Board of Management members has been agreed by all patron bodies, the INTO and the National Parents Council (Primary). A steering committee was established by the Department of Education and Science to assist with the design of the training modules.

Five modules have been prepared and trainers were selected by the various patron bodies. The 5 topics available to Board of Management members through the diocesan secretariats are as follows:

1. The Board as Corporate Entity – Function, Roles and The Board in Action

The aims for this session are to:

• explain the concept of the Board as a corporate body
• examine ideas for building relationships between Board and all those who make up the school community
• explore ideas in relation to good practice for the Board – conducting meetings, establishing systems of communication etc.

2. Procedures governing the appointment of

• Principals
• Permanent teachers/Fixed term teachers
• Substitute teachers
• Special Needs Assistants
• Ancillary staff – caretaker, secretary, etc.
• Posts of Responsibility

3. Board Finances & the Role of Treasurer

Key areas in this session include:

• The collective responsibility of the Board for all financial matters
• The role and responsibilities of the Treasurer
• Establishing good accounting practices – maintaining accurate records, having all expenditure by or on behalf of the Board approved by the Board

4. Legal Issues: policies and procedures arising from legislation, guidelines and circulars

Areas covered in this session include:

• The general responsibilities of the Board arising from legislation, guidelines and circular letters
• Procedures to follow when issues of concern arise
• Issues arising from the Education Act, the Education Welfare Act, Data Protection legislation, Health and Safety legislation, Equality Acts
• Section 29 Appeals

5. Child Protection

Areas covered in this session include:

• The responsibility of the Board as outlined in the Child Protection Guidelines and Procedures (DES)
• The role of the Designated Liaison Person
• The responsibility of the Board as an employer in the event of an allegation being made about a staff member
• Procedures to be followed when concerns arise

Legislation and Guidelines

Fees and Expenses

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