Self-Policing or Self-Improving?: Analysing Peer Reviews Between Schools in England Through the Lens of Isomorphism

Peer reviews have become increasingly common in recent years. They generally involve staff from at least one other school in reviewing practice in a host school and feeding back their findings. Drawing on two recent studies (Greany and Higham; 2018; Greany, 2018) Toby will analyse examples and explore how far these reflect the three forms of isomorphism (coercive, mimetic and normative) identified by DiMaggio and Powell (1983). Overall his evidence supports DiMaggio and Powell’s conclusion that organisational homogenisation is not necessarily associated with improved performance except where it is combined with wider processes of professional learning for all staff. Toby will be discussing these findings in relation to recent developments in the English school system as well as wider debates on quality, accountability, homogenisation, improvement and innovation in contemporary school systems.

Toby is Professor of Education and Convener of the Centre for Research in Education Leadership and Management (CRELM) at the University of Nottingham. His previous roles include Professor of Leadership and Innovation at the UCL Institute of Education, Executive Director – Leadership Development at the National College for School Leadership (NCSL) and Special Adviser to the Education and Skills Select Committee. Toby’s research is focused on understanding the ways in which educational policy and practice interact and the roles of system governance, leadership agency and evidence in this process. His Nuffield-funded research into England’s ‘self-improving school-led system’ reforms was described by the Observer as “a seminal analysis” (30.6.18). His most recent book – School Leadership and Education System Reform, Bloomsbury, 2017 – was co-edited with Professor Peter Earley. He has extensive international experience and has advised the OECD , EU and ministries in several countries on issues relating to educational leadership.

Wednesday 20th January 2021, 5.30pm – 6.30pm GMT

Please register for a free ticket to attend at this link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/135756963733

The Zoom link to join the webinar will be emailed to all registered attendees a day before the event.