Lesson observation form based on the Ofsted framework

Ofsted doesn't expect you to use its inspection criteria to grade lessons. However, if you want to refer to it when carrying out lesson observations, including for EYFS lessons, use our template forms.

Last reviewed on 15 March 2023
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 6308
Contents
  1. Download our template form
  2. Alternative template and step-by-step guide to lesson observations

Download our template form

If you want to refer to Ofsted criteria for 'quality of education' when carrying out lesson observations, use our template form to help you.

You'll want to use the criteria as a reference point and not as a scoring system or a checklist. This is because Ofsted doesn't expect you to grade individual lessons using its criteria, and inspectors don't do this either.

EYFS lessons

If you're observing a lesson in the Early Years Foundation Stage, use this form instead. It refers to 'quality of early years' criteria.

Alternative template and step-by-step guide to lesson observations

See our other article on lesson observations for an alternative template (in section 3).

You'll also find:

  • Advice on how best to prepare for an observation
  • Suggested questions to ask pupils
  • A template feedback form