Coaching as a tool for teacher development Benefits and challenges of coaching: Perspectives from a Zenex Literacy Project teacher and HoD Mrs Buyi Nombombo, Charles Duna Primary School

Setting the scenario The teacher presents a lesson The coach has a detailed observation tool/ uses the GROW Model Coach gives feedback after the lesson Feedback looks at the impact of the lesson on the learners and areas for improvement

Effect of coaching for professional development Coaching helps to build relationships between the teacher and mentor Encourages good communication Start with positive feedback and then look at the gaps Coaching builds trust The teacher’s strengths emerge There is an opportunity for reflections to measure the results

Advantages of being coached Teacher gains confidence and enthusiasm Sets goals / objectives The teacher gets to know her strengths and weaknesses Ensures that teachers plan effectively Quality relationships build quality teaching and learning

Disadvantages of being coached Initial stages of coaching are uncomfortable Direct leading questions can be uncomfortable Coaching is difficult at the beginning and end of the year due to revision and assessments Clash of own plans with DBE activities School activities sometimes disrupt planned coaching sessions

Effects of coaching on classroom practice Time table is honoured Handing over of the baton Classroom organisation Quality of teaching and learning Knowing your reality leads to options and a way forward

Role of HOD as coach to teachers Coaching skills / GROW Model helps with meetings HOD’s vision for her Phase Be a good listener Be knowledgeable and lead by example Be flexible Have passion for change Give constructive feedback and incentives Encourage quality relationships Capitalise on teacher’s strengths to achieve goals

Coaching techniques from ZENLIT Project GROW model in meetings Allocating responsibilities to everybody with time frames COIN – to structure feedback Linked to IQMS – HOD – Validation of scores, for the teacher - PGP Reflections

Lessons to share GROW Model helps to eliminate a waste of time COIN – constructive feedback Listen and do not judge Team work Continuous class visits helps you to know the reality

ZENLIT Project HODs 2017

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