Aspects of the challenges provided by delegated financial management of schools and the impact on the learning outcomes

Abstract

This study delves into the "Aspects of the Challenges Provided by Delegated Financial Management of Schools and the Impact on the Learning Outcomes' An overview of delegated financial management reveals why over a decade ago the need for such a process arose in Maltese education, in line with the international trends on this field. "But, what is the impact of this delegation on the learning outcomes? How can school management better influence effectiveness of school work?' These are the questions the author has attempted to provide an answer for in this essay. International literature gives the example of the close correlation between financial delegation and effectiveness. The budgetary process in favour of SDP is exposed in all its components as a most important link for successful school management. This has. been particularly emphasised because from the survey done in due time - through questionnaires and interviews with headmasters - precisely the link between delegated finances and SDP had come out as the most striking concern effecting the learning outcomes. Understanding in practice the importance of this link together with a more open management style and greater initiative can improve the positive impact of devolved financial management and make way for further decentralisation. The analysis on the opinion from the head teachers shows, however, that delegated financial management has been welcomed and its handling from the "chalk face' does benefit the learning outcomes. The author believes the limitation of this work is not to have been complimented by a case study, but confirms the conclusions on the positive impact of the delegated financial management, limited though it may be.