According to the NCTL (2013), the ‘parrot on the shoulder’ is a fairly intensive coaching technique that can be used in mentoring trainee teachers. It involves a great deal of interaction between the CM and the trainee throughout the lesson as the CM ‘drip-feeds’ information and questions at key moments. In doing so, opportunities to exploit significant learning moments are seized allowing the CM to raise the trainee’s awareness and question his or her practice.

The Early Stages

Initially, when trainees are new to teaching, the ‘parrot on the shoulder’ technique can be used whilst CM and trainee are team teaching. The information fed to the trainee by the CM would include such things as:

• why the CM is about to do, or has done, something especially if this is not in the planning;
• observations of children’s behaviour unnoticed by the trainee;
• gentle reminders to the trainee of what he or she needs to do or say;
• appropriate positive feedback to the trainee.

Essentially, the CM is providing a running commentary of the significant aspects of the lesson as they occur because commenting on everything taking place is not practical.

The Later Stages

As both CM and trainee become familiar with the technique, and as the trainee becomes more confident in his or her teaching, the CM may decide to use it to support the lesson that the trainee solely teaches. In the role as an observing ‘parrot on the shoulder’ rather than a teaching one, the CM may whisper in the ear of the trainee questions and observations such as:

• That’s a good question, how could you make more of the child’s answer?
• The pace is slipping a little here, what could you do to pick it up?
• That was a really good opportunity for assessment for learning. How can you make sure that the student really benefits from your exchange?

(Adapted from NCTL, 2013, p8)

Of course, the CM can offer advice and suggestions as part of the support whispered ensuring that the learning that is taking place is maximised.

Every lesson that utilises this technique should be followed by a summing up session.

Reference

National College for Teaching and Leadership [NCTL] (2013) A Coaching Journey to Outstanding. [online] Nottingham: NCTL. Available at: <https://www.nationalcollege.org.uk/cm-mc-mccor-cs-sec.pdf> [Accessed 04 November 2014].