ABSTRACT

Joe Butler has a reputation for being a Head who can ‘turn schools around’ but on his arrival at Blackbeck Comprehensive has he met his Waterloo? The school has failed an OFSTED inspection, is currently on ‘special measures’ and the former head teacher is away on long-term sick leave. The school shares a campus with a Sure Start Centre, and a primary school. The buildings are all in a poor state of repair and Joe feels there is currently no sense of community within the school. What changes might Joe attempt to make in his first week, his first month, his first term? What should Joe’s first moves be in relation (1) to his staff and (2) his pupils? Which other agencies might Joe invite to assist him to rebuild Blackbeck? How might Joe integrate the local catchment area community into the work of the school?