What is a practical observation?
As part of your course, there are a set of ‘criteria’ to complete. These are statements which are needed to be evidenced to show you have gained the necessary skills, knowledge and competencies. A practical observation is where your internal and external observers record what they see you do whilst on placement. These observations need to be able to evidence that you have met the required criteria. Multiple observations can and will be conducted over time to give you the opportunity to develop and complete all of the required criteria.
Observation location
Oxbridge has a team of assessors who cover the majority of the UK. If you’re based in the highlands, Islands or Northern Ireland, then please get in touch before enrolling. We can service these areas, but there will be additional charges for travel. Please note: this service is only available in the UK.
Internal practical observations
What is an internal observation?
This is where a qualified senior colleague can observe you and give feedback to us. This helps keep the price of your course as low as possible and helps our carbon footprint.
How does an internal observation work?
A senior colleague who already holds the qualification they are assessing (or a recognised equivalent) and has successfully assessed learners for other Teaching, Learning, or Assessment qualifications will be able to undertake the observation. We offer a free, short training course for anyone who is going to take part in an Internal Observation.
What if I don’t have a qualified colleague?
If you cannot find or do not want to use an internal resource for this, then we are able to send an Oxbridge Assessor to observe you for an additional fee of £200 on the UK Mainland.
External practical observations
What is an external observation?
This is where we come and visit you. One of the Oxbridge Assessors will visit you in placement and complete the necessary practical observations. They will provide advice and guidance where needed. They are there to observe but also to support you.
How does an external observation work?
An Oxbridge assessor who is qualified and experienced in the area they are assessing will arrange a convenient time to attend your workplace setting. They will, on the day, arrive at your setting and observe you in practice. Recording what you do and linking this to the required criteria/statements in your course. The observations will then be shared with you and uploaded to your portfolio.
Prior to the practical observation, we will work with you to ensure that you get the most out of that time. Don't worry; you'll be fully prepared with our help before we arrive.