Bespoke School Improvement Support and Quality Assurance
Hello! I’m Steve Smith and I work as an educational consultant. I provide a range of school improvement and quality-assurance services to meet schools’ specific needs. I have 30 years’ experience in education and expertise, across both primary and secondary phases, rooted in teaching, school leadership, being an HMI and a serving Ofsted inspector.
School Improvement and Quality Assurance
School Improvement and Quality Assurance
Now accepting work for the spring term from January 2025
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Now accepting work for the spring term from January 2025 〰️
Recent Work
I have recently been working with schools and trusts to monitor different aspects of provision, such as writing and behaviour, and provide recommendations for improvement. I have also chaired or assisted the management of CEO appraisal processes, and I am supporting one school to ensure it is compliant with the independent school standards. Alongside this work, I have been out on inspection nearly every week, which has been very helpful for sharpening skills.
My Services
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Inspection Preparation
As a serving inspector and previous HMI, I can ensure you are ready for your next inspection against all areas of the framework.
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Staff Training
If you need a knowledgeable and charismatic speaker for whole-staff, small group and individual CPD, I provide accessible and relevant training.
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Education Review and QA
I’m highly experienced at reviewing all aspects of education, across primary and secondary. You will receive objective, evaluative reports highlighting clearly strengths and recommendations for improvement.
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Leadership Development
With experience of school leadership at all levels, and being part of a multi-academy trust executive team, I can help you define your strategic direction and practical solutions to everyday leadership problems.
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Curriculum Development
High-quality educational experience is underpinned by a rich curriculum. From intent through to impact I can help you ensure that your curriculum is ambitious, knowledge-rich, learnt effectively and tailored to your pupils’ needs.
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Appraisal, Performance Management and Headteacher Supervision
I have extensive experience of different appraisal and performance management systems to get the best from staff. I can also support headteachers to manage their workloads and day-to-day demands.
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Investigations
Occasionally, things go wrong. Whether it be a disciplinary matter, safeguarding or an HR matter, I can take the pressure off by conducting an objective, thorough and sensitive investigation to provide resolution.
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Document Review
Whether it’s a strategic proposal, a policy or an action plan, I’m well placed to help you create, revise and review your documents.
I have experience of the following from my time as a trust education director…
Executive headteacher model
Leading the implementation of an executive headteacher and hub model of school leadership across the trust. This model was instrumental in encouraging schools to work more closely together, share teachers and other resources, and drive greater consistency of practice.
Material changes
Managing school material changes. In one case, supporting the closure of a school. This was a difficult but necessary process. I understand how important it is to get communication with different stakeholders right.
Emergency leadership
Emergency leadership to support schools in crisis. Sometimes, schools run into difficulties, especially when head teachers leave at short notice. I have recently deployed other leaders from other schools in the trust to step in to stabilise and repair a school.
Emergency leadership (2)
Prior to this, I have deputised myself or been part of a team to cover the absence of a headteacher, both short and long term.
Trust-wide CPD
In recent years, as education director for a large MAT, I have overseen the design of trust-wide CPD training days, both online (during lockdown) and in person. In-person events have enabled different groups of staff to receive training relevant to their needs on different sites at the same time.
Commissioned support
In addition to using my own expertise, I have brokered and deployed external school improvement support to meet schools’ needs.
Let’s Work Together
It’s a privilege to visit a school. Every place is unique and has its own character. I enjoy getting to know schools and their pupils, and establishing relationships with leaders and staff. I would be delighted to work with you if you feel I could support you to improve the educational experience of your young people.