Our team finds observations time-consuming — will this add more work?

The aim is the opposite: shorter, sharper observation formats that take less time to write while giving you more useful information for planning.

Does this cover observations for Aistear Síolta Practice Guide requirements?

Yes, the formats and language covered are designed to align with what inspectors and the Practice Guide look for in meaningful documentation.

Can this help us prepare observations for a Quality Action Plan?

Yes, clear, well-linked observations are strong evidence for a Quality Action Plan, and this session gives you formats that hold up well under review.

Is this suitable for a team with mixed experience levels?

Yes, the session works for both newly qualified staff building foundational skills and experienced educators refining their approach.

Do you cover photographic and digital observation tools?

The principles apply whether you use paper, an app or photographs, though the session focuses on the quality of the written or spoken observation itself rather than any particular software.

For early years educators

Effective Observations That Inform Practice

Observations only matter if they inform practice. This workshop moves beyond box-ticking to help educators write observations that genuinely feed planning, highlight a child's interests, and flag concerns early. You will leave with formats you can use straight away and a clearer sense of what to look for.

Led by Amy Byrne — BA (Hons) Level 8 in Early Childhood Education and Care, currently studying a Level 9 postgraduate in play therapy, Children First trained and a Mandated Person. One hour, with a take-home booklet and a dated certificate of attendance.

See dates & book Request this as a private session

Who this is for

For educators, room leaders and managers responsible for observation, planning and documentation in an early years setting.

What we cover in the hour

The difference between descriptive, narrative and learning-story style observations.
How to link an observation directly to the next step in planning.
Spotting a child's schema or interest through repeated observation.
Writing observations that are objective, respectful and useful to parents.
Time-saving observation formats for busy ratio days.
When an observation should prompt a wider conversation or referral.

What you'll leave with

Three observation formats matched to different situations.
A planning-link template connecting observation to next steps.
Guidance on writing observations parents will actually want to read.
A quick-reference list of schema indicators to watch for.
A time-saving weekly observation schedule for your room.

Inside the booklet

The booklet includes the three observation format templates, a planning-link sheet and a schema quick-reference guide.

This workshop supports Síolta Standard 1, Rights of the Child, and Standard 5, Interactions, and connects to all four Aistear themes as observation should inform learning across Wellbeing, Identity and Belonging, Communicating and Exploring and Thinking.

How it can be delivered

Delivery formats and prices for Effective Observations That Inform Practice
Format	Price
Public ticket — live onlineOne hour, small group, booklet emailed	€20 per person
Public ticket — in personOne hour in a venue near you, booklet in hand	€35 per person
Private 1:1 with Amy30 minutes €25 · full hour €50 (3 for €135)	from €25
Private group — onlineParent evening or staff session, minimum 5	€35 per person
Private group — in personYour setting or venue, minimum 6	€45 per person

No VAT and no booking fees. An itemised receipt is emailed instantly, and invoices are available before you book. Running this across a whole setting? Setting packages start at €399.

Common questions

Our team finds observations time-consuming — will this add more work?: The aim is the opposite: shorter, sharper observation formats that take less time to write while giving you more useful information for planning.
Does this cover observations for Aistear Síolta Practice Guide requirements?: Yes, the formats and language covered are designed to align with what inspectors and the Practice Guide look for in meaningful documentation.
Can this help us prepare observations for a Quality Action Plan?: Yes, clear, well-linked observations are strong evidence for a Quality Action Plan, and this session gives you formats that hold up well under review.
Is this suitable for a team with mixed experience levels?: Yes, the session works for both newly qualified staff building foundational skills and experienced educators refining their approach.
Do you cover photographic and digital observation tools?: The principles apply whether you use paper, an app or photographs, though the session focuses on the quality of the written or spoken observation itself rather than any particular software.

Related workshops

More in this theme: Curriculum planning · All workshop themes · Upcoming dates

Available live online across Ireland, and in person in Dublin, Kildare, Meath, Wicklow, Louth, Cork and other counties.

Trusted early years resources

Every workshop is grounded in Irish early years frameworks and national guidance.

Workshop themes · Book a date · Counties we serve · Play & learning blog · FAQ · About Amy