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Lesson observations: how-to guide and templates

Get to grips with how to carry out successful lesson observations. Use our lesson observation template, template feedback form for staff, and spreadsheet to keep track of observations throughout the school year.

Last reviewed on 15 October 2025See updates
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 36104
Contents
  1. You can set your own rules 
  2. Decide on a focus
  3. Understand the context 
  4. Use our template form to structure your observations ...
  5. ... or use KeyGPT to adapt your current template
  6. Talk to pupils and look at their work
  7. Follow up the observation with feedback
  8. Record your observations and outcomes 
  9. Share the results with the SLT and follow up with teachers
  10. Use learning walks instead of lesson observations when appropriate

You can set your own rules 

There are no requirements on:

  • The number of lesson observations you can carry out in a year
  • How long observations should last
  • Who can carry out observations
  • How much notice you need to give before an observation
  • Whether drop-ins or learning walks should count as lesson observations

Ofsted won't expect to see any specific number or format of observations, either.

Consider what style and frequency of observations will work best in terms of the workload and wellbeing of your senior leadership team (SLT) and teachers.

Create a policy and keep union protocols in mind

Set out your school’s approach to lesson observations in a policy – it could be its own observation policy, or part of your appraisal policy.

Your policy could include:

Unions have their own protocols, so bear those in mind. If