Thanks to collaboration, professional discussion, and a shared commitment to improvement, VNET’s peer review system is having a lasting impact on schools. Teachers and leaders are developing their practice, gaining fresh perspectives, and building strong relationships that will continue to benefit them long into the future.
With new focus areas and an expanding network, the VNET peer review initiative is set to continue making a real difference. By working together and staying curious about better ways to support pupils, schools are taking control of their own improvement journey.
Exploring VNET’s peer review system for school improvement
The VNET peer review system has become a fantastic way for schools to work together, learn from each other, and grow as professionals. Leaders have collaborated, engaged in important discussions, shared their knowledge, and gained fresh perspectives. This collective effort is making a real difference in teaching, leadership, and pupil success across East Anglia.
What we did: a team effort for better schools
Schools were eager to step outside their own environments, visit other schools, and share what works best. After the challenges of COVID-19, this initiative provided an invaluable opportunity for leaders to see different approaches in action, reconnect with colleagues, and strengthen their professional networks.
Over the past few terms, just under 90 leaders have taken part in the peer review process. Schools worked in small groups – pairs, triads, or tetrads – observing lessons, discussing challenges, and providing constructive feedback in a supportive and professional environment. The focus was on collaboration, learning, and a shared drive for continuous improvement. Rather than being externally judged, schools took ownership of their own development, ensuring that the process was both meaningful and impactful.
A key element of the peer review process was the audit tool, which provided structure and consistency. This framework ensured that reviews focused on key areas while allowing flexibility to explore context-specific challenges. It guided reviewers to ask insightful questions, identify strengths, and pinpoint areas for growth, making the process more targeted and effective.
What we found: key insights from peer reviews
Over the past year, schools have focused on areas such as:
- Personal Development
- Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
- History
- Computing
- Science
- Support for Looked-After Children
These reviews have highlighted innovative practices, helped schools reflect on their approaches, and led to tangible improvements.
Reflection time: a key part of the process
One of the most valuable aspects of the peer review process was the opportunity to pause and reflect. In the fast-paced world of education, taking time to evaluate what is working well and where improvements can be made is often overlooked.
Each visit was followed by dedicated time for discussion, allowing participants to absorb new insights and consider how they could apply them in their own schools. Many found that these moments of reflection were just as impactful as the visits themselves. Having the space to discuss key takeaways, refine strategies, and plan next steps ensured that the learning from the reviews led to real, lasting change.
The power of professional networks
One of the most significant benefits of the peer review process has been the strong professional networks it has created. Schools that once worked in isolation now have access to a wider community of educators who provide ongoing support and advice.
For school leaders – particularly those outside Multi-Academy Trusts – peer reviews have been invaluable for external validation and knowledge-sharing. Middle leaders have found the process empowering, helping them to develop confidence and refine their leadership skills.
What’s next: continue to expand the peer review programme
Following another successful year, the peer review programme will expand next year to include Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and leadership. These areas will offer even more opportunities for professional learning and collaboration, ensuring that schools continue to strengthen their practice and drive improvement.
By broadening the scope of peer review, VNET is enabling more schools to engage in meaningful reflection, refine their strategies, and enhance leadership at all levels. The future looks bright as schools continue to learn and improve together.
Please contact us for further information
- support@vnetcic.com
- 01603 555207
VNET Education CIC
The Enterprise Centre
University of East Anglia
Norwich, NR4 7TJ
