Teachers are entitled to be consulted on all matters related to the organisation and curriculum of the school. This is expressly provided for in the Community Schools Deed of Trust, Articles of Management, Section 10(i), where provision is made for the establishment of an Advisory Committee to assist the Board of Management in the running of the school. The Advisory Committee consists of the Principal, Deputy Principal and not more than five elected representatives of the staff.
The
Education Act, 1998, Section 23 clearly puts the onus on the Principal
to consult the teaching staff in the determination of objectives for
the school and in the monitoring of the achievement of these
objectives. It is also implicit in Section 21, dealing with the School
Plan, that detailed discussion with the teaching staff is essential in
the preparation of the Plan. (DES Circular Letters M20/99 and M40/99
dealing with School Development Planning make provision for
consultation with staff during the course of the school year)