Introduction

Originally published in 1988. The qualities that identify a good school are high teaching standards and teacher morale, good levels of behaviour, successful pupil performance and a well-balanced provision of extra-curricular activities. Such schools are described as ‘well-run’ but the correlation between effectiveness and an explicit management strategy is not yet established. This book seeks to examine the role of management in the primary school and to identify those areas in which effective management practice can make a valuable contribution to school life for the benefit of both staff and pupils. It argues that although useful insights can be gained into school organisation from the scientific management perspective, the human relation approach to management has more to offer to those working in the primary sector. The focus is therefore on personal relationships. The importance of a clear sense of purpose is emphasised throughout, especially in view of the challenges which now face our primary schools.