Why do we have school policies?

School policies and procedures are an important part of school life.  They are designed to provide parents, staff, governors, the local authority and Ofsted inspectors with an instant overview of the school's principles.  Policies are important because they help a school establish rules and procedures alongside clear expectations of the standards of quality required such as in learning and safety.  They are a key part of Oak Hill's school improvement processess helping both to raise standards and communicate clearly the school's values.

There are policies schools must always have in place, such as those relating to pupil welfare and safeguarding, teaching and learning practices and staff matters.  Schools also publish other policies which whilst not legally required, are an important part of the school's strategic and operational frameworks that ensure consistency in applying values and principles throughout the school.

School policies should be reviewed regularly and as part of its governance improvement programme, the Oak Hill Governing Board has introduced a formal programme of policy review which includes a clear timeline for when every policy will be reviewed and updated.