Teachers’ standards are set by the Department of Education (DfE) and written in law. These professional standards for teachers came into effect in 2012, replacing the ‘standards for qualified teacher status’ and the ‘core professional standards’.
What are Teacher Standards?
Teachers’ Standards set the minimum requirements for teachers’ practice and conduct. They define the minimum level of practice for trainees and teachers to achieve qualified teacher status. The standards can be used to assess the performance of teachers.
Who has to adhere to the teaching standards?
The Teachers’ Standards apply to trainee teachers working towards QTS, all teachers completing their statutory induction period (ECTs) and teachers in maintained schools, including maintained special schools.
The use of professional standards for teachers in academies and free schools depends on the specific arrangements of those schools. Independent schools are not required to use the standards.
How many teacher standards are there?
The teachers’ standards are separated into two parts; teaching, and personal and professional conduct.
There are eight statutory teachers’ standards related to teaching. They state that a teacher must:
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Set high expectations which inspire, motivate and challenge pupils
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Promote good progress and outcomes by pupils
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Demonstrate good subject and curriculum knowledge
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Plan and teach well structured lessons
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Adapt teaching to respond to the strengths and needs of all pupils
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Make accurate and productive use of assessment
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Manage behaviour effectively to ensure a good and safe learning environment
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Fulfil wider professional responsibilities