Network Managers can hardly be called 'a rare breed' - rather a collection of individuals.  Certainly all those I have met have arrived in post from a very varied number of training backgrounds and deliver an even wider range of service  styles and abilities.

Some have trained primarily as computer engineers or software developers with no immediate perception of ICT in schools.  Others have worked up through the school system, firstly as junior technicians, or who came into schools through a university sandwich course or gap-year.  Many have grown into the full-time job, having previously been nothing more than teachers with a 'hobby' in computing, or the overworked ICT co-ordinator who found that working the two different rôles as teacher of ICT and Network Manger was just too much!

The job description or function of the Network Manger varies greatly.  In some establishments this is the most senior ICT post - in others the management of the Networks is seen as a discrete rôle with yet others responsible for overall management, MIS, help-desk services, development and training.  BECTA has a very impressive section on ICT services - which is well worth reading.  For an interactive self assessment tool click here.   A 15-page pdf file outlining Technicians' Competencies is also available.

For me,  the personality of the Network Manager is fundamental to the whole ethos of the school.  In some establishments that person is no more than a technician, however competent,  slaving away in an arcane and hidden sanctum.  I spoke to such a person about advising staff to switch off equipment at the end of the day, Jobsworth replied, "It's not my job to tell teachers what to do!"  In other establishments, the Network Manger and his assistant(s) are the friendly face of encouragement, leadership and wonder, sitting at the portal of all I ever wanted to do!

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