School Consultations
Making a decision
Once a consultation period has closed, decision-makers should follow a structured approach to reviewing feedback and determining the next steps. Here are some key tips:
1. Closing the consultation
- Stop collecting responses after the agreed date and time (unless previously agreed extensions apply).
- Save and securely store all responses in one place. This may involve scanning handwriting responses or saving emails to a digital folder. You could be asked to share these at a later date, so careful storage is advisable.
2. Organise the Responses
- Where possible log all responses into a spreadsheet to allow easier analysis of responses and support good recording keeping. You may wish to include the stakeholder group and what was the method of response (email, letter, online form etc.)
3. Reviewing the responses
- Read through all responses. Highlight and group similar points or concerns (e.g. transport, staffing, SEN provision, curriculum impact).
- Who has responded? (Are certain voices underrepresented?)
- What's the overall tone or trend? (Supportive, mixed, opposed?)
- Are there particular concerns raised that need further evidence, clarification or mitigation? Are there any frequently raised issues? Where there any misunderstandings that could be addressed through clearer communication?
- Weigh up the balance of feedback (e.g. majority supportive but some legitimate concerns)
- Consider any highlighted risks, impacts and opportunities.
Remember: A consultation is not a vote, you are seeking informed views to support good decision-making, not necessarily acting only on the majority view. Decision-makers need to understand the quality of the arguments, not just the quantity.
4. Document the responses and recommendation
Write a short report summarising the process, the feedback received, and your recommended next step. This enables you to share responses and be transparent about why you are (or are not) proceeding, and what changes or mitigations you'll make as a result of the feedback. You may find the Reporting Template useful, which can be found here.
