Quality First Teaching (QFT) has been designed with teacher development firmly in mind. This guide supports the thinking and understanding explored through coaching and the self-directed study. QFT sets out key terms, ideas, concepts and strategies, thus giving colleagues a common frame of reference.
It is important to note that Quality First Teaching is not a checklist of actions that teachers must perform in every lesson. Teachers who are new to BISS Puxi will have at least one formal lesson observation during their probationary period, however, once that period is completed, they will have no further lesson observations.
Moroever, coaching has no association with observation or monitoring whatsoever. In coaching, the coach and coachee work together on specific areas of teaching practice that require more attention than others. Coaching aims to help teachers to enhance their practice, explore new pedagogies, grapple with areas that may be challenging and to take risks. Achieving this requires an environment where curiosity and reflective dialogue are the bedrock.
Colleagues should still expect to see members of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) dropping into lessons, speaking to students and looking at samples of student work. SLT walkthroughs help us to gain an accurate and up-to-date picture of teaching and learning in Secondary, but they are entirely separate to professional development practices such as in-class coaching, video coaching and the self-directed study.
As part of the Key Stage 3 pastoral programme, each pupil was tasked to prepare a speech on a topic they were passionate about. This activity took place during form time within the first term. Pupils chose a diverse array of topics ranging from sports and hobbies to global hot topics such as ‘Artificial Intelligence’, ‘Plastic – The issue’, ‘Invest in your Sleep’ and ‘Anxiety’.
Lights, camera, action! The 2024 BISS Film Awards (BFAs) took place on Friday 12 April, leaving the audience spellbound with the cinematic artistry showcased by our student filmmakers.
In a thrilling display of skill and determination, our D1 girls' football team won the plate competition, culminating in a memorable send-off for our seniors.
Year 2 embarked on a captivating six-week journey to Evergreen Farm, immersing themselves in hands-on agricultural experiences. The programme aimed to educate students about farming practices, foster appreciation for nature, and cultivate essential life skills.
