What should be included in an FTO's daily observation report?

The daily observation report created by a Field Training Officer (FTO) is a vital document in the training and assessment process of recruits. Including the recruit’s performance and areas for improvement is essential because it provides a comprehensive overview of how the recruit is developing in their role. This feedback is crucial for the recruit’s growth and understanding of expectations, as it highlights both the strengths and the specific areas where further development is necessary. By documenting these aspects, the FTO enables the recruit to see their progress and identify actionable steps to enhance their skills and effectiveness in law enforcement duties.

Incorporating only positive comments about the recruit would not give a complete picture of their performance and would hinder their ability to improve. An evaluation of community engagement, while important, does not encompass the entirety of the recruit's training performance, which is why it's not the focus of the daily report. Similarly, detailing unrelated training activities would distract from the primary purpose of the report: to track the recruit’s specific performance and developmental needs during their training period. Therefore, focusing on performance and areas for improvement is not only relevant but essential for effective field training.