Common Assessment Framework (CAF) - early views and issues

This study explores the profile of Common Assessment Framework (CAF) assessments and the perceptions of assessors during the early phase of its implementation. Whilst there was diversity in who completed CAFs, schools undertook the most. Headteachers and other school staff completing the assessment felt that the questions tended to be intrusive and they feared this might damage their relationship with parents. Assessments proved time consuming and completers tended to go on to become the Lead Professional. Comments suggested some people were avoiding the completion of CAFs because of fears about the increased workload. There were, however, positive views about the rigour of the process and it had tended to serve to prompt positive dialogue between agencies. There were genuine attempts to involve children in the process.