Unit 4 Vision, Mission, Improvement and Planning

Introduction
In the first unit of Module One, we looked at the importance of creating a vision for the school. This is a key function of a leader. We developed this theme by explaining the importance of the school’s Mission Statement and how it should reflect that vision and be the embodiment of all the school stands for. The guidelines explain the requirements for all schools to display prominently the vision, mission and goals / objectives of the school. It would be helpful if you re-read the first unit of Module One to remind yourself of the requirements.

The guidelines also explain the requirements for learners to know and recite the school song, pledge and prayer.

Throughout this programme, we have reiterated the importance of planning, especially for school development. The guidelines explain how you should go about the construction of the School Improvement Plan (SIP) and what it should contain. They explain the constitution and functions of the School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) which leads the plan and who should be members. Examples are given as to how the plan should be laid out and the contents therein.

In addition, you are provided with details of the Annual Work Plan which is a year’s plan of activities from January to December which the school will follow in pursuit of its mission and objectives. Proforma are provided for the Quarterly Projections of the Work Plan and the Termly Schedule of Activities and Events.

Now read thoroughly pages 21 – 31 of the guidelines “School Records and Documents”.

Now complete the following activities in your portfolio. You should try to do so with as little reference to the guidelines as possible, only referring to them at the end when you should check your answers and correct them where necessary.

Activities Unit Four

4.1 Look at your own school’s vision and mission statements and reflect for a short while on whether you feel they are being fulfilled.

4.2 Do the priorities in your school improvement plan reflect the school’s mission, vision and objectives as displayed in your school?

4.3 What are the functions of the SIAC? Do you believe your school fulfils those functions?

4.4 Of the whole school issues which must be included in the SIP, which do you think are the most important and will have the biggest impact on the performance of the school?

4.5 Why do you think it is important to create an Annual Work Plan and Quarterly projections?