School Self-Evaluation (SSE) is a formal process introduced by the Department of Education to help schools improve the quality of teaching and learning through reflective, evidence-based practice.
Key Features of SSE:
- Reflective Practice
We evaluate our own performance by looking at data (like exam results, attendance, surveys, etc.) and reflecting on our strengths and areas for improvement. - Collaborative Process
Teachers, school leaders, and sometimes students and parents are involved in identifying priorities for improvement. - Cyclical Process
SSE typically follows a cycle:- Gathering evidence
- Making judgments
- Developing and implementing improvement plans
- Reviewing progress
- Focus Areas
We choose specific areas to evaluate and improve. These might include literacy, numeracy, wellbeing, or aspects of teaching and learning (e.g., student engagement, formative assessment). - Guidelines and Support
The Department of Education provides SSE Guidelines and the Looking at Our School framework, which outlines standards for school leadership and teaching. - SSE and DEIS Plan
The outcome of our SSE process is our DEIS Plan — a written plan outlining our school’s improvement goals and actions.
