On 21st July 2018, the DfE released advice and tools to help school leaders and teachers review and reduce workload.
Background - The workload challenge
In October 2014 the DfE launched the workload challenge, where teachers were asked to share their views on how to reduce unnecessary workload. Over 44,000 people responded to the survey, highlighting 3 main areas that can cause unnecessary workload - marking, planning and data management.
Read a full summary of the workload challenge here.
About the workload reduction toolkit
The DfE consulted Ofsted, the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), the NAHT School Leaders' Union, NASUWT, the National Education Union (NEU) and Voice throughout the development of the toolkit to address the drivers of excessive workload at a national level.
There is no expectation for schools to use all of the resources, and there is no requirement for the toolkit to replace existing successful approaches. The toolkit is split into 3 stages, but the tools can also be used as standalone materials.
- Stage 1 - Identify the workload issues in your school
The DfE has provided a workload audit tool to help you identify the workload issues within your school. Find out more about Stage 1.
- Stage 2 - Address the issues in your school
Resources to address the issues in your school have been grouped into common themes which can lead to excessive workload in schools. These resources include tips from leaders, case studies and workshops. Find out more about Stage 2.
- Stage 3 - Evaluate the impact
The DfE have created a checklist to summarise your actions and to help you evaluate the changes that have been made. Find out more about Stage 3.
Read the full announcement on the DfE website.
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