Independent Department Reviews for Stronger School Structures

Our department and structural reviews help schools evaluate effectiveness, identify improvements, and align operations with strategic goals -ensuring teams and systems are fit for purpose.

Providing Clarity Around Structure, Performance & Direction

Our Department and Structural Review service provides an independent evaluation of how a school’s internal structures, departments, and leadership teams are functioning. We work with principals and school boards to assess the alignment between school vision, staff roles, and outcomes —offering tailored recommendations to improve collaboration, effectiveness, and student achievement.

Whether responding to internal concerns, planning for future growth, or addressing under-performance, our reviews offer a clear picture of what’s working and where change is needed.


Designed for School Boards, Principals & Senior Leaders

This service is ideal for school leaders and boards seeking an objective, expert-led process to review the performance and structure of school departments or leadership teams. It can be used to:

  • Evaluate the effectiveness of leadership or middle management roles
  • Review departmental collaboration and alignment
  • Support schools experiencing performance concerns or internal conflict
  • Plan structural changes or staffing shifts during strategic growth phases

An Open, Unbiased Review to Provide Positive Change

Our process is built on open communication, trust, and professionalism. We work alongside school boards, principals, and key staff to ensure the review is relevant, respectful, and focused on positive change. All findings are treated confidentially and presented with clarity.

Our department and structural reviews typically follow five key phases:

  1. Understanding the School Context
    We begin by gathering information about the school’s structure, culture, and current concerns. This includes reviewing key documentation, meeting with leadership, and agreeing on the focus of the review.
  2. Scoping the Review
    We clarify the scope of the review and develop a tailored methodology. This may include identifying specific teams or departments for focus, agreeing on criteria, and outlining the feedback collection approach.
  3. Engagement & Information Gathering
    We meet with key stakeholders, including staff, senior leaders, and school board representatives. Input is gathered through confidential interviews, surveys, and document reviews to build a well-rounded view of operations and relationships.
  4. Review & Reporting
    Findings are analysed and presented in a comprehensive report. This outlines strengths, areas for improvement, and clear, actionable recommendations to supportfuture planning and structural improvement.
  5. Debrief & Strategic Planning
    We meet with the principal and board (or leadership team) to share findings, answer questions, and provide guidance on how to implement recommendations effectively.

Clear Insights That Drive Meaningful Change

A Department or Structural Review provides clarity, improves communication, and helps ensure your school’s structure supports its strategic direction. Common outcomes include:

  • Improved alignment between roles, responsibilities, and outcomes
  • Better communication and collaboration across teams
  • Recommendations to support performance, development, or restructure
  • Strengthened leadership and staff relationships
  • Confidence for boards in decision-making and planning

Talk to our consultants

Get in touch to discuss a tailored review for your school or view our full range of school leadership support services.