Classroom observation

Preparation 
It is the observer’s responsibility to ensure that the person being observed is aware of the 
purpose of the observation and of any particular focus. This may be discussed informally or 
in a brief meeting in advance of the observation. Observers are expected to plan for the 
observation by reading any paperwork given in advance and familiarising themselves with 
the class to be observed. 
It is the responsibility of the person being observed to ensure that all relevant paperwork 
(previous observations, Welcome File, planning for the lesson and pupils’ IEPs) are readily 
accessible to the observer and that they have advised the observer on any issues which 
may adversely affect the lesson (for example, it may be unwise for the observer to 
approach a particular pupil, a key member of staff may be absent and replaced by a less 
experienced member of the supply team). 

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Evaluation, grading and recording 
Specific pro formas are used to record OFSTED style, peer and professional development 
observations (see pages 6 – 16). 
The pro formas for OFSTED style lessons are based on guidance in the OFSTED 
handbook and identify key criteria which contribute to the overall judgement. The final 
grade, however, is not the ‘sum of the boxes ticked’ but a ‘best fit’ of the grade descriptions 
on page 3. Observers and those being observed should note the conditions which mean 
that a lesson cannot be judged as satisfactory, however good other elements of the lesson 
might be.
Peer observations and professional development observations are based on the school’s 
view of good practice. No overall grade is given.
As the pro formas for observations form part of the evidence for teachers’ performance 
management, copies are kept in the teacher’s performance management file and their 
personnel file. A further copy is given to the Head of the Centre for Professional 
Development and Information who will collate the information across the school for 
discussion at the Curriculum Monitoring and Development Group.
Advisory observations need not be formally recorded; the nature of the written record is 
agreed between the observer and the person being observed. These records are not filed 
centrally; teachers may use them in their performance management if they wish to do so. 
Feedback 
Verbal feedback should take place on the same day if possible and always within two 
working days of the observation. Written feedback should be given to the person observed 
within five working days and should take account of the comments made by the person 
being observed.