How to write performance objectives

Understand your requirements and get advice on writing performance objectives. Find out how to link performance objectives to your school improvement plan (SIP).

Last reviewed on 23 August 2023
School types: All · School phases: All
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Contents
  1. Check your requirements 
  2. Write SMART objectives to make them meaningful 
  3. See examples of performance objectives
  4. Link performance objectives to your school improvement plan (SIP)
  5. Involve staff members in setting objectives 
  6. Think about your staffing structure and team development

Check your requirements 

Maintained schools must set objectives

Teachers' objectives must:

  • Be set as part of the appraisal process (read our guide to appraising teachers for more detail)
  • Contribute to improving the education of pupils at the school and the implementation of any school improvement plans

These requirements are set out in regulation 6 of The Education (School Teachers’ Appraisal) (England) Regulations 2012.

They only apply to teachers, not support staff. However, the advice below will be useful for any role you're setting objectives for. 

Academies and free schools should set objectives

It's good practice for you to follow the objective-setting practices set out here. This is explained on page 4 of the DfE's model teacher appraisal and capability policy

Teachers' objectives should:

  • Be set as part of the appraisal process (read our guide to appraising teachers for more detail)
  • Contribute to improving the education of pupils at the school and the implementation of any school improvement plans

However, there is no legal requirements for you to do so.