Trainer Observations

What is a Trainer Observation?

A trainer observation is when your qualified trainer watches you deliver a lesson and scores your performance against the official DVSA Standards Check criteria. This mirrors what will happen in your actual Standards Check exam.

The Scoring System

Each of the 17 competencies is scored on a 1-3 scale:

• Score 1 - Needs significant work. This competency requires focused improvement.
• Score 2 - Adequate but needs improvement. You're on the right track but not yet fully competent.
• Score 3 - Competent. You've demonstrated this skill to the required standard.

Total Score

Your total score is out of 51 (17 competencies × 3 points each). A score of around 43+ (approximately 85%) typically indicates Standards Check readiness.

The 17 Competencies

Lesson Planning (1-4) - Maximum 12 points

1. Did the instructor identify the pupil's learning goals and needs?
2. Was the agreed lesson structure appropriate for the pupil's experience and ability?
3. Were the practice areas suitable?
4. Was the lesson plan adapted, when appropriate, to help the pupil work towards their learning goals?

Risk Management (5-9) - Maximum 15 points

5. Did the instructor ensure that the pupil fully understood how the responsibility for risk would be shared?
6. Were directions and instructions given to the pupil clear and given in good time?
7. Was the instructor aware of the surroundings and the pupil's actions?
8. Was any verbal or physical intervention by the instructor timely and appropriate?
9. Was sufficient feedback given to help the pupil understand any potential safety critical incidents?

Teaching & Learning (10-17) - Maximum 24 points

10. Was the teaching and learning style suited to the pupil's learning style and current ability?
11. Was the pupil encouraged to analyse problems and take responsibility for their learning?
12. Were opportunities and examples used to clarify learning outcomes?
13. Was the technical information given comprehensive, appropriate and accurate?
14. Was the pupil given appropriate and timely feedback during the session?
15. Were the pupil's queries followed up and answered?
16. Did the instructor maintain an appropriate non-discriminatory manner throughout the session?
17. At the end of the session - was the pupil encouraged to reflect on their own performance?

For PDIs: Receiving Observations

When your trainer completes an observation:

1. You'll see it on your dashboard
   The observation appears in your Recent Observations list and updates your Latest Observation Scores.
2. Review your scores
   Look at how you scored in each category and overall.
3. Read the feedback
   Tap on any competency to see your trainer's specific feedback for that area.
4. Identify priorities
   Your Top Development Needs section highlights where to focus your improvement efforts.

For Trainers: Conducting Observations

1. Navigate to New Observation
   From your trainer dashboard, select the PDI and click "New Observation".
2. Select the learner
   Choose which of the PDI's learners was being taught during this observation.
3. Score each competency
   Work through all 17 competencies, assigning a score of 1, 2, or 3.
4. Provide feedback
   For each competency, add specific feedback explaining the score.
5. Review and submit
   Check your scores and feedback are complete, then submit the observation.

Working Towards Standards Check Readiness

Use your observation history to gauge your readiness:

• Consistent scores of 40+ - You're approaching readiness
• All competencies at 2 or above - No major weak areas
• Upward trend - Your scores are improving over time
• Stable performance - Consistent scores across multiple observations

Learning Resources

After viewing an observation with low scores, myPDI may recommend learning resources specifically targeted at those competencies. These can help you understand what's expected and how to improve.