Independent Investigations
Grievance, conduct and capability matters in schools and trusts
When a formal matter involves a headteacher or a senior leader, it is rarely possible to investigate it from inside the school. This is how I work, what it costs and the safeguards I hold to.
Matters I investigate
- Grievances raised by or against a headteacher or senior leader.
- Conduct and disciplinary matters at leadership level.
- Capability concerns requiring independent fact-finding.
- Complaints escalated beyond the school’s own procedures.
- Matters requiring demonstrable independence.
Independence and confidentiality
I will investigate, or I will coach, but never both in the same school on the same matter. Where a leadership team needs support afterwards, that work goes to somebody else unless every party agrees otherwise in writing.
Any prior connection to the school, the governing body or an individual is declared before appointment, and I decline where it could compromise independence. All material is handled in accordance with UK GDPR and returned or destroyed on the commissioner’s instruction.
How the investigation is conducted
- The Terms of Reference are agreed in writing before any work begins, setting out the allegations, the scope, who commissions and who receives the report.
- The documentary evidence is reviewed: policies, procedures, correspondence and records.
- Interviews are held with the complainant, the respondent and witnesses, each advised of their right to be accompanied. Notes are returned for each person to check and sign.
- Findings of fact are reached on the balance of probabilities against each allegation, with the evidence relied upon stated.
- A written report sets out the process, the evidence, the findings and, where the Terms of Reference provide for it, recommendations.
My role concludes with the report. Not every case results in a hearing, and where the evidence does not support further action the report says so. What happens next is a decision for the school, not for me. Where a procedure requires my attendance, I attend at the hourly rate.
Headteacher appraisal
Following requests from schools, I am currently reviewing our headteacher appraisal package. If you would like to talk to me before that is ready, please telephone 0333 006 8567 or email shirleyann@sjeducoach.com. Anything you tell me is treated in confidence.
Fees
| Investigation, charged hourly: | £125 per hour |
| Typical matter involving a senior leader, including report: | 30 to 40 hours |
| Attendance at a hearing, where required: | £125 per hour |
| Travel within Greater London: | Included |
An estimate of hours follows once the Terms of Reference are agreed.
No VAT is chargeable. Invoiced on purchase order.
To discuss a matter in confidence, please get in touch below. There is no charge for an initial conversation about scope, and no obligation to proceed.
Shirleyann Jones
NPQH | FCCT · Former Headteacher | Independent Investigator | Founder, SJ Educoach Limited
More than thirty years in education, including headships in London and Dubai. Coaches senior school leaders independently and as an associate, including with the Tower Hamlets Education Partnership. Associate School Improvement Partner with BDSIP. Serving governor in three London primary schools. Most recently investigated a grievance concerning a headteacher, commissioned by a chair of governors.