September 2024 marked a significant turning point in how UK schools approach teacher appraisal – our research considers what this means for teacher development as we look towards 2025/26 and beyond
With the removal of Performance-Related Pay, schools and trusts now have flexibility to reshape their appraisal process. This change, following the Workload Reduction Taskforce recommendations, acknowledges that previous systems were often burdensome and ineffective.
“Schools can choose whether or not to retain some or all elements of performance related pay, but a school’s pay policy should minimise the impact on workload for individual teachers, line managers, school leaders and governing boards.” DfE 2024
What can we learn, and what needs to change, in order for teacher appraisal to have a positive impact on teacher development?
At Teacher Development Trust (TDT), we welcome this policy shift and view it as an opportunity for real change.
We see this as a chance to shift the focus from what is done to how it is done, supporting leaders to craft developmental and non-punitive appraisal processes that genuinely support professional growth and foster positive cultures.
With this change comes decisions for school leaders around teacher evaluation, development, and pay:
- What are the essential elements of an effective teacher appraisal system that promotes professional growth and development?
- What evidence-based strategies can be employed to design and implement appraisal systems that enhance teacher quality while minimising unintended negative consequences?
- How can appraisal systems balance accountability with development objectives without undermining teacher trust and agency?
Our research
To address these questions, TDT has undertaken a new research initiative, the first in our CPD Leadership Insights Series. As a charity dedicated to supporting school leaders to build stronger schools through effective professional development, we recognised the need for robust, evidence-based guidance in this area.
We are therefore excited to share our research report on teacher appraisal which synthesises findings from across education and related sectors to offer school leaders clear, evidence-based recommendations for designing developmental appraisal systems in schools.
Early feedback indicates that this report holds real value for leaders: ‘It makes total sense – that is exactly what we should be doing for appraisal. It’s clear and what it is suggesting is implemented is great.’ – Rebecca Charlesworth, Primary Headteacher
Access our findings
Download the comprehensive research report or find the key takeaways in our Executive Summary below
To access our targeted one-page guide designed specifically for school leaders, you require a Free CPD Leadership Hub Account. Create your account, then click the button below to access.
We’d love to hear your feedback
Join the conversation 
Knowing that these appraisal changes will present unique challenges for school leaders as they attempt to implement change alongside wider sector influences, TDT is hosting an online open discussion forum. This will be held on Thursday 19th June at 9.30 – 11am hosted by TDT colleagues – Gareth Conyard and Andrea Bean
We are creating this space for school leaders to come together to share insights and challenges, to network and collaborate on developing solutions. Come armed with questions, suggestions or just to listen and learn from colleagues – please register here
