Lesson 1 of 6 · 6 min · 8-card deck

Teachers' Standards: Part One and Part Two

What's expected of every teacher in England, in plain English.

The Teachers' Standards (DfE, 2011, updated 2021) define the minimum requirements for teachers' practice and conduct in England. They apply from the day you qualify and continue for the whole of your career. Every formal observation, performance review and capability process is anchored to them.

Part One sets out eight teaching standards: set high expectations; promote good progress; demonstrate good subject knowledge; plan and teach well-structured lessons; adapt teaching to respond to pupils' needs; make accurate use of assessment; manage behaviour; and fulfil wider professional responsibilities.

Active recall flashcards

Work through every card. Try to answer in your head before flipping — the act of retrieving is what builds durable memory.

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Practice scenario

A teacher facing a difficult parent complaint reviews Part Two before the meeting. The Standards remind her of her duty to maintain proper boundaries — and she goes into the meeting confident, professional, and clear about her position.

Try this in your classroom

Read both Part One and Part Two of the Teachers' Standards now.
Re-read them at the start of each academic year.
When in doubt about a decision, check it against Part Two.
Keep evidence of how you meet each Part One standard.