What is an Ofsted Inspection?
A school Ofsted inspection is carried out under section 5 of the Education Act 2005. It is a process of evidence gathering in order to provide an assessment of how well a school is performing. Inspections are short and focused, and dialogue with senior managers in the school plays a central part. The school’s self-evaluation provides the starting point for inspectors, and the views of pupils, parents and other stakeholders are taken into account. Inspections are conducted by a lead inspector and, depending on the size of the school, a team of inspectors. It must result in a written report indicating one of four grades: outstanding, good, satisfactory or inadequate. The frequency, length and number of inspectors involved is in proportion to the need for guidance to support improvement. When do inspections take place? There is a three year cycle for the inspection of schools, and a school normally receives two clear working days’ notice. Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector has the power to aut
