Going Beyond Audit.

Abstract

This article describes the work undertaken by a cluster of Resource Teachers: Learning
and Behaviour (RTLB) to ensure that annual effectiveness reviews were more than a compliance exercise but a genuine attempt to improve their service to schools, hence the title of this article of “Going Beyond Audit”. Historically, the cluster had met the reporting requirements set by the Ministry of Education (MOE), however to make the process more purposeful, reviews were broadened through the collection of a wider variety of qualitative and quantitative data. A feature of the qualitative data collection methods employed is the annual focus group interviews designed to gather feedback from representatives of client schools. As a result of the interviews, the RTLB cluster has received positive affirmation about its service and additionally, identified some key areas where its service could be strengthened. More importantly, it has developed a robust and practical system of review by blending information sources and methodology. Feedback collected can be fed directly into strategic planning and
is proving useful in shaping practice. The focus group interviews are also benefiting participants by expanding their understanding of the RTLB role as well as enhancing professional networks. This article outlines the cluster’s interpretation and implementation of authentic evidence-based practice (EBP).