Ofsted has launched a consultation on proposals to revise arrangements for the inspection of initial teacher education (ITE), which will be introduced from September 2012.
They propose to raise expectations of providers of teacher training,with the aim of ensuring that more trainees are better prepared with the practical skills that teachers need most, such as the ability to manage behaviour and teach reading effectively.
The current inspection arrangements have been in place since September 2008, and feedback has been positive. However, it has also suggested continuing to raise expectations by drawing up clearer, more challenging criteria with fewer, more streamlined judgements and one overarching judgement for overall effectiveness. Ofsted is also seeking views on reducing the eight-week notice period for an inspection to three weeks.
Miriam Rosen from HMCI commented:
“The quality of teaching is an essential element in any school so the selection and training of the next generation of teachers is crucial. We hope that changes to the way we inspect initial teacher education will enable inspectors to focus even more on the things that are important: teaching pupils to read, behaviour management and trainees’ ability to teach a range of learners, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities.
“Inspection helps to raise standards and ensure the best training is provided. We want more trainees to become good or outstanding teachers and gain employment in schools. This is why, in the new arrangements, we want to focus inspection more on observing current and former trainees in the classroom.
“I’d like to encourage anyone with an interest in initial teacher education, in particular those who provide training, are currently in training, or thinking of joining a teacher training programme, to tell us their views.”
To find out more, go to: http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/news/raising-expectations-for-teacher-training-0.
To get involved, go to: http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/resources/framework-for-inspection-of-initial-teacher-education-2012.
The closing date for the consultation is 31 January 2012.