Ofsted shares learnings from pilot inspections
Ofsted has shared findings from pilot inspections carried out in 115 schools this autumn, ahead of the full rollout of its renewed inspection framework.
In a blog by Lee Owston, Ofsted’s National Director for Education, he wrote: "Overall, feedback on the renewed framework has continued to be really encouraging. Many providers described the toolkit and methodology as a positive step forward, appreciating the clarity they bring to the inspection process and the opportunity to see how inspectors are applying the renewed approach."
However, some concerns were raised about increased workload and pressure on staff, particularly in smaller or more complex schools, as well as about how pupil achievement is assessed.
In response, Ofsted has made several changes to the framework. A small but significant wording change has been made to the achievement standard, adding the word “typically” to better reflect variations in school data, such as when pupil numbers are small or when no published data is available.
The updated standard now reads: "On the whole, pupils achieve well. Typically, this will be reflected in their attainment and progress in national tests and examinations, which are broadly in line with national averages, including for disadvantaged pupils."
Inspectors will also have access to enhanced context information through the new IDSR, which includes indicators about pupil mobility, levels of disadvantage, and the proportion of pupils with SEND.
The pilots also highlighted ways to reduce pressure on school leaders and staff. Having an additional inspector on site proved valuable, allowing lead inspectors more time to engage with leaders and ensuring inspections ran more smoothly. In smaller schools, Ofsted found that spreading inspection days across two days, rather than adding an extra day at the start, made the process more manageable. Maintained nursery school inspections will also be scheduled for the spring and summer terms, when inspectors can better assess children’s progress.
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