TM4T Step-by-Step 3 - OFSTEd

It may seem perverse to observe that the efficient teacher needs to lower their standards when an OFSTED inspection looms, but that is exactly what needs to happen. In order to understand this we need to look at what planning an efficient teacher might do on a daily basis.

Firstly, of course, there is lesson planning, for today and/or tomorrow. This includes reviewing and tailoring lesson scripts and Ticklist actions relating to lessons.

Secondly, however, there is the preparation of unit plans for the next two-three weeks teaching: lesson scripts, behaviour plans, differentiation plans etc.

Finally, there is longer-term planning: the preparation of Schemes of Work for next term, and the review and development of Groundwork plans.

If OFSTED are arriving tomorrow, everything but the first activities - those focused on immediate lesson planning - need to take a back seat. This means

a) Reviewing the excellent work and excellent plans already in place

b) Planning excellent lessons for tomorrow. These may not always reflect your unit plans or scheme of work

c) Produce formal lesson plans (in whatever odd format your school recommends) for the observer, but retain your seating plans, behaviour plans etc to use in the lesson and to share with the observer if appropriate.

This unequivocal focus on the short-term is unfortunate, but it is likely to yield the results you want. Your free-time timetable is likely to especially useful in planning your time before the inspection.