Hi

I have been asked to write a reference for someone I work with to support her applictaion for a course. Please could you advise me on what sort of things you include in your references? Do you wirte under certain headings? How much do you normally write?

I have never written one before and don't want to let her down!!

Elfy
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I think it is really difficult to do a reference without having the criteria you need to consider. I'm sure there's a post on here somewhere about references - someone with technical expertise will come along and point you in the right direction!

I have just been asked to provide a 'blanket' reference for a member of staff who left at the end of last term, but I've written back and asked for performance critiera - unless you know what issues are important to the new employer, how can you provide a useful reference?

So my advice would be to find out more about the kind of information they require about the candidate....

Maz

I would write something like

'x has worked with me in my classroom for y years. She has been supportive and interested, responding well to the children and they to her. She has always been interested in a and would be a good student.'


I would say everything I knew about this person and her interest in the course.

Good luck.

I would mention their rapport with children and adults. Professionalism. Willingness to learn and be involved in professional development. Past performance and how you would judge their performance as a practitioner. promptness, appearance, reliability. OOh I don't know, the head normally does the references but I have done lots for NQT's and students I have mentored but I agree it is easier if you have some idea of what the reference is for and what they are looking for specifically.

I usually mention something about the person's communication skills, both oral and written - that might be quite relevant if it's an application for a course.

Elfy , I am sure whatever you write will be wonderful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and it is quite weird to read a post written with me in mind by another.

Seriously as to what they want from the reference. I do not know, it just asks for 2 to be taken on induction evening.

Thanks in adavnce

Well, their written communication skills are obviously fine.....!!!!!

Thanks for that Wolfie!

What course is this for Phil?

Maz

CCLD NVQ Level 3 . I have had the interview, got the funding, NOW they want references!

Well good luck with it all Phil!

You can include in the reference that Phil is computer / internet literate.

Good luck with the studies Phil.

Peggy

...and obviously committed to continuous professional development and sharing good practice!

Enjoy your course Phil!

Maz