Unofficial unannounced observations

[Bronzeisthecolour]

New linemanager keeps coming in during lesson and sitting watching for 15 minutes..... never had this before and it can be off putting. Is it normal? I want to ask her about it but if its a normal thing ( previous line managers never did) then I'll leave it.

It’s very normal at my current school, but always done in a supportive way. If it feels uncomfortable, maybe ask your union rep?

Yes very normal and while unions dislike it sometimes. Many schools do it and it is an agreed practice so even if unhappy without a grievance unions struggle to challenge.

I've not seen this before- learning walks with a 5 minute drop in, yes, and I think that's fine. Longer drop ins whilst being told the purpose and being given feedback, yes. Slightly longer "observations" of you, presumably with no purpose or feedback being shared isn't something I've seen before. I would at least ask them casually (in a non confrontational way) why they are doing this.

Are you new to the school, or is the line manager new to you? What's the school policy on things like learning walks?

@Postapocalypticcowgirl she's new to the position and is doing the same to other colleague she line manages. I'll ask her on Monday and check school policy. I've also had 2 learning walks this term so alot!

I'm amazed she has time to be doing this if she is new to the role! I would definitely ask her the purpose of the observation, and ask for feedback each time. If she's observing you with no purpose, outside of what's normal in your school e.g. learning walks + PMR observations, then I would push back- perhaps first of all via an informal conversation with her, and then via the union and/or to her line manager if she continues.

It sounds like what she's doing isn't normal for your school, so I think you have standing to ask questions as a minimum.

Thanks @Postapocalypticcowgirl I can't believe it either-she spent 15 mins in my colleagues room then came to me for similar time! Yes it's definitely unusual so I'll have a chat to her.