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Improving coaching: evolution not revolution

Author: Lofthouse, Rachel et al
Subject: Coaching and mentoring
Audience: Headteachers, Middle leaders and aspiring headteachers
Date of publication: July 2010   |   File format and size: PDF, 1.00 Mb

In the last decade coaching has become more and more popular in schools. But as it becomes increasingly tangled up with mentorship and performance management, has it become just another new toy that has lost its shine?

This report provides an overview of current coaching practice, identifying its highlights and limitations. It reflects on the impact coaching has when being carried out most effectively and the outcomes it can produce, comparing this with the way it is conducted in most schools.

It identifies a need to develop the skills not just of coached teachers but of coaches themselves, and seeks to help both coaches and coordinators learn from best practice. It considers the vocabulary used in coaching, its coordination and management, and the use of specific strategies, such as video analysis and challenge, as techniques to improve both coaching and teaching.

Most importantly it shows what a difference excellent coaching can make, providing inspiration and motivation to make this technique work and improve standards across school.