1. In accordance with Public Service Regulations, 2001, Section Vlll, all executing authorities are obliged to develop a new staff performance management and development system (SPMDS) in order to replace the current system of performance evaluation.
2. Before utilising a performance management and development system, and to ensure its validity, a department has to test the system on groups of employees in all occupational categories. In consultation with the Public Service trade unions a transversal macro policy has been developed for the Western Cape: Provincial Administration. The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has developed the enclosed procedure manual within the parameters of this policy framework. To facilitate the WCED pilot project in this regard, its distinctive organisational context was taken into consideration.
3. The pilot population will include line managers and representatives of public service staff attached to 20% of WCED educational institutions taken from all Education Management and Development Centres (EMDCs). Due regard will be given to the fact that the organizational context differs at various types of institutions, such as Elsen schools, agricultural schools and institutions with hostels. A component of office-based public service staff from each directorate or EMDC will also form part of the pilot project which will extend from 1 April 2003 to 31 March 2004.
4. The validity of the SPMDS will be tested during the pilot period and feedback and results will be utilised to shape the final system to be implemented with effect from 1 June 2004. Although the project will be under continuous review during this period, any proposals from parties who are not part of the project will also be appreciated. All proposals/contributions may be sent to Mrs M de Wet at mdewet@pgwc.gov.za or Mrs E Potgieter at epotgiet@pgwc.gov.za.
5. Information sessions which will provide information regarding the application of the SPMDS and the future processes have been scheduled for March and April 2003.
6. Furthermore, it should be mentioned that the existing performance evaluation system for public service staff will remain operative up to and including 31 May 2004.
7. Any enquiries regarding the contents of this circular may be directed to the following:
Mrs M de Wet:        Tel. (021) 467-2474
Mrs E Potgieter:     Tel. (021) 467-2472
8. Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of all public service personnel under your control.


SIGNED: G.J. ELLIOTT
HEAD: EDUCATION
DATE: 2003:02:12