Appraisals Skills
Course Description
Town and parish councils recognise the value of staff appraisals, not only as good practice but as an opportunity to strengthen communication and support effective working relationships. However, many councils face challenges such as staff reluctance, time constraints, and a lack of confidence in how to approach the process.
This interactive 90‑minute session is designed to help councillors and clerks overcome these barriers and implement appraisal processes that are professional, supportive, and effective. We recommend that at least one councillor attends on behalf of the council as the employer.
The session also provides an opportunity to network with councillors from across Northamptonshire, Leicestershire and Rutland, sharing ideas and best practice.
During the course, delegates will:
- Understand the purpose and benefits of appraisals for both the council and the employee
- Explore ways to address staff concerns and build confidence in the process
- Learn how to plan and structure effective appraisal meetings
- Develop an appraisal format tailored to their council
- Create clear and practical action plans
- Understand how appraisals support performance management
- Ensure appraisals are conducted confidentially and in line with GDPR requirements
Who Should Attend
The course is for both clerks and councillors.
Cost (per delegate)
£35 +VAT Members
£70 +VAT Non Members
Marie Reilly 
Training Manager, Northants CALC
Marie joined the Association in 2019. Prior to that, she has worked in Learning and Development since 2014. Marie has been a parish councillor since 2018 and has had various roles on committees and working parties as well as Vice Chair to the council. She achieved Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA) in 2020 and is a recognised CiLCA Trainer to the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC).
Training & Events: Terms and Conditions