The deadline for completion of an independent review into Department of Education’s relationship with its schools has been extended, the Examiner understands.

The review, to go to the Council of Ministers, was announced in June, with the dispute between teachers and the department rumbling on.

Originally the target date for submission of a draft report -including conclusions and recommendations was July 31.

Education Minister Alex Allinson has been interviewed as part of the inquiry, conducted by management consultancy Beamans.

Dr Allinson said: ’I am aware that Beamans have requested a slight extension to allow them to take evidence from the large number of people and groups who wanted to take part in the independent review.

’Whilst I have been interviewed by them I have not seen any report or recommendations yet.’

The review was set up to examine the effectiveness of governance arrangements, such as how the Department of Education, Sport and Culture provides oversight of schools and the effectiveness of the department’s ’interface’ with schools, including its relationships with governing bodies and leadership teams

Announcing the review, Chief Minister Howard Quayle said the relationship between the department and schools was a key part of the education system.

’We must ensure it is effective, fit for purpose and robust if we are to achieve an education system that delivers the best for our young people and for our island.’

The department has had a rocky relationship with teachers this year. Unions are in dispute over pay, pensions, workload and conditions

Last week NASUWT members voted in favour of continuing with industrial action - in a ballot required in order to maintain the current dispute.

Just before the review was announced, Dr Allinson apologised for any ’hurt’ caused to teachers comments made by DESC chief executive Ronald Barr. The NASUWT and head teachers union NAHT lodged a complaint against Professor Barr over ’unfounded’ comments he made to a Tynwald scrutiny committee when he in part blamed the industrial dispute for any disparity in education provision during the Covid-19 lockdown.

Teaching unions began a work to rule in February, as part of their dispute, but pledged to work with the government during the virus outbreak.