ABSTRACT
This chapter is an overview of the three-stage lesson observation programme. It explores what the three-stage lesson observation programme is, what each of the stages looks like, the objectives of each stage and expected outcomes. The chapter explores the responsibility of the headteacher to ensure that all school practices are fair and that the quality of teaching and learning is good, if not excellent, at all times. Headteachers are responsible for spotting talent in their staff as well as understanding when there are potential problems and being instrumental in coaching and mentoring staff. The chapter explores ‘the zebra at the back of the pack’ in terms of performance and how the three-stage lesson observation programme can be used to instil confidence in a coaching and mentoring environment. This chapter explains how the three-stage lesson observation programme can be implemented in schools, including those schools with over one thousand pupils, often described as ‘Titan’ schools. The chapter details the learning journey of our school, how staff were brought along on the journey, and the importance of setting out your stall for what you want to achieve through lesson observation. The chapter includes a suggested teaching and learning policy embracing the three-stage lesson observation programme. It also acknowledges the wrap-around activities of learning walks, peer observation and work scrutiny as additional practices to ensure the success of the three-stage lesson observation programme.
