Naace

Self-review Framework (SRF) - Frequently Asked Questions

Naace continues to develop and run the Self-review Framework (SRF) and the ICT Mark. This page has been provided to answer common questions about forthcoming changes to the SRF. This page also covers more general questions about the use of the SRF.

Self-review Framework - FAQ

Introduction

Naace and the Department for Education (DfE) have recently written to all registered users of the online tool regarding the Self-review Framework (SRF) outlining forthcoming changes. You may read the text of the email here. In the following FAQ we address queries relating to the forthcoming changes first, followed by more general answers relating to the use of the Self-review Framework.

Why are changes being made?

The Department for Education identified the SRF as a valuable tool that should be retained for the use of schools following the closure of Becta in March 2011. Naace, who has managed the ICT Mark scheme since its inception and who also provide help desk support to users of the SRF online tool, has agreed to take over responsibility for the scheme so that it will continue to meet the needs of schools.

Naace will continue to provide a tool that will accept all the data that schools have entered into the SRF. However, Naace will need the permission of schools to transfer their data to Naace and this will be the subject of a further message to users in due course.

When will the changes be made?

Naace will assume responsibility for the Self-review Framework from 1 April 2012 although we will need to contact users prior to this to ensure that the data is transferred to Naace.

What do I need to do?

At present the only thing that you need to do is to keep an eye out for further communications from Naace or the DfE regarding this important information. Please ensure that your contact details on the SRF are up to date so that we can communicate effectively with you particularly regarding the transfer of your data to Naace. More information will follow in the near future, so for now, please continue to use the SRF online tool to support your school.

Will our data be lost when the SRF tool is transferred to Naace?

Data will be safe, but schools will need to give permission for their data to be transferred to Naace. We will be writing to all users shortly with instructions about how to do this. The transfer process will need to be completed by 31 March 2012 when the existing tool will be decommissioned. Users do not need to do anything at the moment but should look out for further correspondence from Naace regarding how this can be achieved.

How do I access the Self-review Framework?

You can access the Self-review Framework at https://selfreview.becta.org.uk. You will need to enter your username and password to enable access to your school's individual account.

I have forgotten my username and password and so cannot access the SRF - what should I do?

You can request a reminder of your password from the online tool https://selfreview.becta.org.uk/reset_password. Alternatively please contact our support team at srfsupport@naace.co.uk or 0115 945 7234 and we will be happy to help you with this.

The person responsible for the SRF in our school has left, how can I access my schools data?

Please contact our support team at srfsupport@naace.co.uk or by telephone on 0115 945 7234 and we will be happy to assist.

I am in the middle of updating the SRF- should I carry on?

Yes, please continue. Your data can then be transferred to Naace at the appropriate time with your permission - we will let you know when this is.

Why is it important for our user details to be up to date?

It is essential that your user details are completely up to date, particularly your email address so that we can maintain contact with you and correspond effectively. We will need to be able to keep you abreast of any developments and ensure that you receive all of the information needed to enable your data to be transferred to Naace.

How do I ensure that our user details are up to date?

Please log onto the Self-review Framework and go to your account details, you can edit these details on this page.

I have logged onto the SRF but it is still Becta branded - am I in the right place?

Yes, you are in the right place. The current link to the SRF is https://selfreview.becta.org.uk or can be accessed from the Naace website. The decision was taken not to rebrand immediately when Becta closed but this will change when Naace takes over.

How will the SRF be funded in the future?

Naace are considering several options for funding the ongoing development and support of the SRF and recognise that there may be a need to make a small charge for future usage. Should this be the case, this will be communicated to all users.

Will changes be made to the actual statements in the SRF?

Initially the Framework will remain unaltered so that the data can be transferred into the new tool. However Naace is leading a newly formed Steering Group with members drawn widely from the ICT community whose job it will be to ensure that the SRF continues to be highly relevant to schools in the changing educational environment.

Will there be a way to access the SRF statements without using the online tool?

Whilst we would encourage schools to use the online tool, the actual statements will be available to all in pdf format on the Naace website.

Is the ICT Mark carrying on as before?

Yes the ICT Mark will be carrying on without interruption. For further information regarding the ICT Mark please go to www.naace.co.uk/ictmark.

Help?

If you have any further questions, please email srfsupport@naace.co.uk or telephone 0115 945 7234.

Why should I review my school using the Self-review Framework?

The Self-review Framework provides a structure for reviewing your school’s use of ICT and its impact on school improvement.

The use of technology in schools is not an end in itself: the overall aim must be to use ICT to enable pupils to make better progress and to raise attainment. The Self-review Framework is designed to help you review your use of technology in a structured way, which will in turn help inform your overall school improvement strategy and plans. Additionally, because the Self-review Framework complements the Self Evaluation Framework (SEF), its use can provide compelling evidence in support of your school’s SEF.

What is the structure of the framework?

A revised Self-review Framework was launched in 2010, with six Elements as follows:

Leadership and management
Planning
Learning
Assessment of ICT Capability
Professional development
Resources

The Framework is based on a series of descriptors of different levels of maturity in the use of ICT in schools. The descriptors, which were written in conjunction with other agencies, were revised in light of the use of ICT and new educational initiatives in schools.

How do I sign up to use the framework?

You need to register your details via the online tool. Once you’ve registered you will receive an email giving your username and password.

How do I create additional users on the Self-review Framework?

Additional users can register at https://selfreview.becta.org.uk/signup, the primary user on the account will then need to approve their access.

Are there examples of other school’s experiences using the framework?

Yes, there are lots of examples of schools that have worked through the Self-review Framework.

Watch videos showing how four schools approached the self-review framework here.
Watch school staff reflect on their experiences here.
Read case studies of past experiences here.

Do I have to register to use the framework?

Registration allows you to edit and save your assessments and action plans. It also enables the system to remind you if you have an action that is due for completion. In addition, you will need to register if your school is working towards the ICT Mark.

Which Element should we look at first?

There is no one correct approach to tackling the Self-review Framework. Schools have started with various different Elements first, perhaps the most common starting points being the Leadership and Management, Resources or Planning Elements.

How long will it take to complete the Framework?
Schools tend to take varying amounts of time to complete the Framework. As a rough guide, it is likely to take a whole development day or one to four meetings per Element.

Can I get any help?

Yes, from your local authority ICT advisor or independent consultant. Many organisations are offering training programmes, support, and events to help schools in their area make the most of the Self-review Framework.

Can all schools use it?

Yes, any school can register to use the Framework, including Pupil Referral Units and independent schools.

How do I report technical problems?

If you experience any technical problems when using the tool please send your query to srfsupport@naace.co.uk or call 0115 945 7234.

You’re unlikely to lose your work if you encounter technical problems as it saves automatically. You may lose work however if your session times out before data has been saved.

How many people can register from one institution?

As many as you like, although the primary user at the school will need to approve any additional users. Please contact srfsupport@naace.co.uk should you require any assistance with this.