THE MANAGEMENT OF COMPLIANCE WITH TEACHERS ́WORKING HOURS: PROCEDURES AND OVERSIGHT BY EDUCATIONAL INSPECTION AND SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

Abstract

This paper analyses the Manual for Managing Compliance with Teachers' Working Hours in Andalusia, examining its implications for school leadership and Educational Inspection. A documentary and legal analysis was conducted, complemented by a critical review of administrative procedures, a SWOT analysis, and evidence-based proposals for improvement grounded in inspection practice. The findings show that the Manual enhances legal certainty, procedural consistency, digitalisation, and administrative traceability while strengthening the roles of school leaders and Educational Inspection. However, it also reveals challenges related to increased bureaucracy, administrative workload, procedural rigidity, and an excessive emphasis on control rather than professional trust. The study concludes that the Manual's effectiveness will depend on its balanced implementation through administrative simplification, enhanced training for school leaders, recognition of teachers' non-contact work, and an inspection model focused on guidance, organisational improvement, and the promotion of pedagogical leadership.