PROFESSIONAL DUTIES OF A PRINCIPAL
TEACHERS’ (TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT) REGULATIONS
(NORTHERN IRELAND)1987
Schedule 1
Regulation 4
General Functions
1. A Principal shall carry out professional duties in accordance with the school’s policy and objectives as determined by the employing authority and, for controlled schools, the Board of Governors. They shall obey reasonable directions from these authorities.
2. The Principal is responsible for the internal organisation, management, and control of the school.
3. The Principal shall consult with the employing authority, staff, and, for controlled schools, the Board of Governors, where appropriate.
Professional Duties
The professional duties include:
1. Formulating the school's aims, objectives, and policies.
2. Participating in staff recruitment and appointment processes.
3. Managing all staff and allocating duties, ensuring fair distribution and compliance with employment terms.
4. Maintaining relationships with staff representatives and other relevant bodies.
5. Organising and implementing an appropriate curriculum tailored to pupils' needs and resources.
6. Regularly reviewing school organisation and work.
7. Evaluating teaching standards and maintaining professional performance.
8. Providing relevant information about staff performance for employment purposes.
9. Participating in staff development and ensuring access to training.
10. Monitoring and recording pupils' progress.
11. Implementing policies for pupils' pastoral care and behaviour management.
12. Ensuring good order and discipline on school premises, including during breaks.
13. Communicating with parents about curriculum, progress, and other school matters.
14. Building effective external relationships.
15. Advising and assisting the Board of Governors, including attending meetings and reporting.
16. Liaising with the employing authority and other schools or institutions.
17. Managing school resources, including financial and material assets.
18. Ensuring school safety and maintenance, reporting issues as needed.
19. Participating in staff development schemes and training.
20. Arranging for Deputy or substitute leadership during absences.
21. Participating in teaching and providing cover for absent teachers, as appropriate.
22. Allowing a minimum of 30 minutes break between 12 noon and 2 pm.
23. Participating in performance review and staff development for Principals.
Additional duties as per DE circular 1994/33 include:
* Considering delegation of duties to Vice-Principal.
* Supporting newly qualified or returning teachers.
The successful candidate should demonstrate experience, knowledge, and skills in areas such as:
* Shaping the future through strategic vision and leadership.
* Leading and managing staff effectively.
* Leading learning and teaching initiatives.
* Developing the school within the community.
* Managing organisation and resources efficiently.
* Ensuring accountability and high standards.
Conditions of service follow Department of Education regulations. The job description is flexible and subject to review. The post promotes equality and diversity, and candidates must be registered with GTCNI. Applicants should provide detailed evidence of how they meet each criterion in their application. The role involves safeguarding responsibilities, including criminal background checks, with costs borne by the applicant. Further information is available through NI Direct and the Department of Justice. Applicants can access guidance notes and benefits information via provided links. The Education Authority is an equal opportunities employer.
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