Association of Teachers and Lecturers logo

Coping with Ofsted while on teaching practice

Inspections

A small number of students have to cope with Ofsted while on teaching practice.

If you find yourself in this  position you might like to consider the following points.

What to do

  • If you are nervous, you can ask your mentor if you can be excluded from being observed. If it is your first teaching practice, you have more chance of avoiding it, but if you are nearly qualified, less so.
  • Tell your college supervisor that you are under more pressure because of it. 
  • Think positively. If you get a good grade for your lessons, it will look impressive on your letter of application for your first job.
  • Make sure that every detail of your next day’s lessons is prepared before you leave each day.
  • Get a proper night’s sleep.
  • Eat properly and stop for a rest at break times.
  • Stay close to other students who are in the school so that you can all support and encourage each other.        

What not to do

  • Don’t panic. It stops you giving your best performance. 
  • Don’t go off ‘sick’. People who are absent during Ofsted are always suspected of malingering. It will enhance your credibility to turn up and cheerfully get on with the job, whatever the quality of your lessons.
             

Start quote
Remember your manner is almost as important as your answers.
End quote
During the week you might be called for an interview. Remember your manner is almost as important as your answers. Hold your head up, look them in the eye and smile. If you don’t know an answer, smile confidently and say, ‘I’m not sure about that. I should be interested to hear your suggestions.’ 

Suggested further reading

  • Cowley, S. (2003) Guerilla Guide to Teaching. Continuum International. London
  • Bennett, H (2005) The Ultimate Teachers' Handbook. Continuum International. London    

The above advice was provided for ATL by teaching specialist Hazel Bennett, author of The ultimate teachers handbook. Hazel can be emailed at hazel@hazelbennett.co.uk.

 Download ATL's free publication for students, Into the classroom, for further advice on how to get the most out of your studies.

Help and support 
For further advice on this issue, ATL members can speak to their school rep, their branch secretary or their regional official. They can also call the London (020 7930 6441), Cardiff (029 2046 5000) or Belfast office (02890 327 990) or email info@atl.org.uk.

For out of hours enquiries, call the out of office hours helpline on 020 7782 1612 (Monday-Friday, 5-8pm during term time).

If you are not a member, join now.


Further information

Resources