Click to view a larger image of the TSF chart

What is the Teachers' Standards Framework?

Please click the image at left to view a larger representation of the A3 sheet setting out the Teachers' Standards Framework Chart.  If you haven't yet seen one ask your headteacher or school CPD co-ordinator as the charts have been sent to all schools.

Copies can be obtained from DfES Publications on 0845 602260 quoting their reference number DfES/0647/2001.

You can visit the TSF web site, hosted by DfES, at the link below:

Teachers' Standards Framework DfES web site.

The National Standards		The Ten Dimensions
NQT Threshold AST Subject leader SENCO Headteacher		Knowledge & understanding Planning & setting expectations Teaching & managing pupil learning Assessment & evaluation Pupil achievement Relations with parents & other adults Managing own performance & development  Managing & developing staff & other adults Managing resources Strategic leadership

TSF is used as a basis for criteria to link to:

• Performance management (what does a good job look like?)
• In-school professional development activities
• Provision from external agencies (training/school improvement services incl BASS)
• Career planning and progression/retention
• Teacher portfolio/professional development log
• Recruitment (job roles/descriptions/selection processes)

So what are the implications for me as a teacher?

• Provides clear links between different stages of career progression
• Shows what you need to do to meet the standards for your next move(s)
• Provides a tool for structured self -review and feedback from others
• Gives you a framework for your longer term professional development plans
• Gives you CPD needs to feed into performance management

So, use the Teachers Standards Framework as a route map to plan ahead.  For example, if you are on the main scale you should make yourself aware of the Threshold Standard at least two/three years before you become eligible.  You can make sure that you plan the development that you need and, for example, feed this into your discussions with your team leader for performance management.

Similarly if you see your next move as becoming a team/subject leader you need to look at the Teachers Standards Framework for Subject Leaders.  The increasing emphasis on people management skills will give you a basis for identifying the professional development experiences you will need to strengthen your case for future team leader posts.

Almost always you will be able to support your school in its improvement plans as well as gaining personal growth and development.