Are Lesson Observations Damaging Teaching? Rethinking Feedback and Trust in Schools

Lesson observations are meant to improve teaching.

But what if, in many schools, they’re actually doing the opposite?

High-stakes lesson observations can often lead to performative teaching, increased anxiety, and a breakdown in trust between teachers and leadership. Instead of supporting professional growth, they risk reducing teaching to a single, high-pressure snapshot.

In this episode of Miss Estruch Teach & Tell, I’m joined by Craig Randall from Trust Based Observations to explore a different, more human approach.

🎥 Watch the Full Episode

The Problem with Traditional Lesson Observations

In many schools, lesson observations are:

• High stakes
• Judgement-driven
• Based on a single lesson
• Focused on evaluation rather than development

The issue?

One-off observations rarely give an accurate picture of teaching.

They often capture a performance—not the everyday reality of a classroom.

This can lead to:

• Teachers “putting on a show”
• Increased stress and pressure
• Reduced authenticity in teaching practice
• A lack of trust between staff and leadership

A Different Approach: Trust Based Observations

Craig Randall, from Trust Based Observations, offers an alternative model—one built on trust, consistency, and professional growth rather than judgement.

Instead of using observations to evaluate teachers, this approach focuses on:

• Building relationships
• Supporting development over time
• Creating psychological safety in the classroom

👉 Learn more about Trust Based Observations 

The “Marbles in the Jar” Approach to Trust

One of the most powerful ideas discussed in this episode is the “marbles in the jar” analogy.

Trust isn’t built in a single moment—it’s developed over time through consistent, positive interactions.

In practical terms, this means:

• Early observations focus only on positive feedback
• Leaders build credibility and trust first
• Teachers feel safe and supported

Only once that trust is established should constructive feedback be introduced.

Rethinking Feedback in Lesson Observations

A key takeaway from this conversation is how feedback is delivered.

Instead of overwhelming teachers with multiple targets, the Trust Based Observations model suggests:

• Focusing on one improvement at a time
• Making feedback specific and actionable
• Ensuring it supports long-term growth, not short-term performance

This creates a far more meaningful and sustainable approach to professional development.

How to Observe Lessons Without Creating Fear

For school leaders, this episode provides a powerful reflection point.

It challenges the idea that accountability must come through pressure—and instead suggests that trust leads to better teaching outcomes.

We explore how leaders can:

• Observe lessons without triggering performative teaching
• Build stronger relationships with staff
• Create a culture of continuous improvement

Who This Episode Is For

This episode is essential listening if you are:

• A classroom teacher experiencing lesson observations
• A middle leader responsible for supporting staff
• A senior leader reviewing your school’s observation systems

A Shift Towards Trust and Professional Growth

If your current observation system feels more like surveillance than support, this conversation will challenge your thinking.

Because ultimately, the goal isn’t to catch teachers out.

It’s to help them improve—and that starts with trust.

Listen to the Full Episode

👉 Watch the full episode to explore how Trust Based Observations can transform teaching, feedback, and school culture.

Essential Links

• 👉 Trust Based Observations 

Stay Connected

• 📸 Follow on Instagram: @miss.estruch.teach.and.tell
• 🎁 Download your FREE Whole Class Feedback Marking Sheet