ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the early controversies surrounding appraisal. It examines the actuality of the policy and the different interpretations of that. The chapter focuses on a variety of models for appraisal and raises some questions regarding such models. The local education authority (LEA) is the appraising body responsible for LEA schools and the governing body that for grant-maintained schools. This means the LEA is responsible for producing a common appraisal scheme for all its schools which is cost-effective and manageable and which implements the Regulations enshrined in the Act and the Guidance in Circular 12/91. The arrangements made within a school are expected to be approved by the governing body, which should receive regular reports on the progress of appraisal of teachers; but governors are not permitted to see actual staff appraisal reports. The role of governors is slightly different in respect of headteacher appraisal.
