Self evaluation is a key feature of effective organisations. Schools need to evaluate their own performance, and have a understanding both of their strengths and areas for development. It is still an Ofsted expectation that schools will undertake the process of self evaluation, though the SEF document is to be withdrawn on 21st July 2011 (see below for more info and the original SEF template).
Various frameworks for self evaluation are available, and the following links may be useful as a starting point if your school intends to move away from the SEF model, or is prepared to pay for outside resources.
- Evaluating Teaching and Learning - some very useful guidance for teachers on responding to Ofsted questions about classroom practice.
- Governing Body self evaluation toolkit (GB self-review tool ) based on one from Ealing Governance Unit, who have also produced a presentation pdf and other resources) To assist Governing Bodies evaluate their practice and performance, they have developed the effective GB self review tool. The aim of this comprehensive tool is to assist GBs to: decide on how well they are organised, exercise their powers and duties, identify gaps in practice/performance that require action, and identify development needs and to plan future training. It covers all the essential work an outstanding GB undertakes.
- NCSL Self evaluation models (2005)
- Becta ICT Self Review (2007 and archived)
- Hampshire LA Resources
- Norfolk Workshop on Self evaluation
- Book list for self evaluation
- “There’s no escape from self evaluation” – article in TES by Kenny Frederick, Headteacher (June 3rd 2011)
- Tony Thornley, Education Consultant and ex-Ofsted Inspector, is updating his guidance on Self Evaluation. The document is expected to be available from ASCL in return for a donation to charity. (See his letter to TES June 10th 2011 and a podcast on self evaluation)
- Pay to have your SEF “screened” by an external reviewer (£395 – £495 SSAT)
- Other commercial tools for preparing for inspection, and self evaluation: eg Forum Business Media (£204) , Primary Grid £95 per annum and Perspective from Angel Solutions) Note that these links are provided for information, and that the products are not endorsed by C2G
Schools will still be expected to complete the Self Evaluation Form (“a non-statutory document which Ofsted expect every school to have ….”) until September 2011 . Access to the SEF will cease on 22nd July 2011, so schools should submit their latest version of the SEF to the website by 21st July, and save a copy of the issued pdf. From September, schools being inspected can, if they wish, offer to Ofsted an updated SEF or some other form of self evaluation. (Norfolk Governors discussed in a workshop how self evaluation might be developed)
Ofsted (Tel: 0300 123 4234) Guidance: “Arrangements regarding the discontinuation of the self-evaluation form website
Ofsted will discontinue the self-evaluation form (SEF) website from 22 July 2011. This is in line with the government’s programme for cost efficiency and reducing bureaucracy. From 22 July, schools will no longer be able to access their school information and self-evaluation form for independent schools (SIEF), or SEF for maintained schools.
Should schools keep their SIEF or SEF after the website closes?
Self-evaluation remains an important aspect of a school’s work, which inspectors will continue to consider when making their judgements.
For inspections that take place in autumn term 2011 independent and maintained schools will be able to provide to Ofsted their self-evaluation information in a format of their choice. Schools may present their SIEF or SEF, or any update thereof, if they wish. However, schools will not be disadvantaged if they choose not to do so.
How can schools keep a copy of their SIEF or SEF?
To preserve the data and information in their SIEF or SEF schools should take the following action by 21 July 2011 at the latest.
1. Save their most recent SIEF or SEF on the SEF website.
2. Submit their saved SIEF or SEF, using the SEF website. This will automatically create a PDF version of the SIEF or SEF.
3. Save the PDF of the SIEF or SEF to the school’s own electronic filing system.
Guidance on submitting the SIEF or SEF and saving a PDF to the school’s own system will be available on the SEF website soon. After 21 July schools will not be able to access PDF versions of their SIEF or SEF on the SEF website.”
Current (ie until July 22nd 2011) Ofsted Guidance on the SEF
Look at an example SEF template for a primary school (blank) pdf.
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