Teachers’ annual reviews to begin next year

All Australian teachers will work towards goals from next year under the new annual performance assessment plan.

Education Ministers have signed off on the Federal Government’s blueprint to introduce the Australian Teacher Performance and Development Framework in 2013.

In announcing the green light for the framework, School Education Minister Peter Garrett said teachers will set yearly goals, with schools then assisting teachers to reach their goals.

Mr Garrett said teachers will receive feedback on their performance based on evidence from classroom observation, parental and student feedback along with student results.

Under-performing teachers will be given access to training and development opportunities.

“For the first time, teachers will be entitled to a yearly review of their progress, and will receive ongoing support and training throughout their career to help them become even better teachers,” Mr Garrett said in a statement.

“Every parent wants to be confident their child is being taught by a teacher who is dedicated, professional, and who is doing a great job in helping their students reach their full potential.”

Teachers will be assessed against the National Professional Standards for Teachers, developed by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL).

AITSL chair Anthony Mackay said improving and developing teachers was “the best way to improve student learning”.

Mr Mackay said the framework and the Professional Learning Charter for Teachers and School Leaders, also endorsed by Education Ministers, were the result of national and international research, advice, analysis and consultation.

“They stand up as amongst the best in the world,” he said.

“Most importantly they set an expectation that all teachers will receive targeted and meaningful appraisal, coaching and feedback alongside the professional learning they need.”