As school leaders gear up for the new academic year, one question is sparking lively debate:
Should we stick with our current SEF (Self-Evaluation Form) and SIP (School Improvement Plan) formats, or adapt now to the potential new Ofsted framework headings?
This very question recently ignited a conversation in the HeadteacherChat community, with leaders sharing insights, strategies, and a fair bit of healthy scepticism.
The Dilemma
One headteacher voiced a common concern:
“I’m about to start my SEF and SIP and wondering what people’s take was on sticking to my original format or attempting to adjust it to the potential new Ofsted headings…”
Without access to certain commercial templates, they asked whether colleagues had already made the switch — and if so, whether they’d share examples.
Key Themes from the Discussion
1. Wait Until the Dust Settles
Several leaders cautioned against jumping too soon:
“Be mindful if you are using the new framework that there may be changes… our advice would be better to wait as they haven’t published yet.”
The risk? Spending hours reformatting only to discover the final framework is different.
2. Aligning with Ofsted Headings
Some see benefits in sticking close to Ofsted’s structure:
“We use the Ofsted areas and it helps focus the discussions with governors… It also meant we could clearly show inspectors our evidence.”
This approach can streamline inspection prep and ensure documentation speaks the same language as inspectors.
3. Going Independent
A few leaders have moved away from Ofsted headings entirely, introducing bespoke frameworks embedded across the curriculum — with positive feedback from inspectors.
Others echoed a similar sentiment: build your SEF/SIP around what benefits pupils most, not just what pleases Ofsted.
4. The Power of a ‘Golden Thread’
One contributor offered a refreshingly simple take:
“I’ve just gone for one whole school target of ‘Using our words’ – an oracy approach… The last SIP had too many targets and none were met properly.”
This streamlined focus reflects a wider movement towards thematic improvement plans that drive depth rather than breadth.
Practical Takeaways for School Leaders
- If you’re risk-averse: Stick with your proven format until the new Ofsted framework is confirmed.
- If you’re inspection-focused: Use Ofsted’s headings to help align staff, governors, and evidence trails.
- If you’re pupil-focused: Build your SEF/SIP around your school’s vision and priorities, adapting language later if needed.
- If you want cohesion: Consider a unifying theme or ‘golden thread’ to tie all improvement work together.
Final Thought
Your SEF and SIP are not just for Ofsted — they’re your school’s roadmap for progress. Whether you choose to hold steady, reframe, or innovate, the key is clarity: make sure your plans serve pupils first, while staying agile enough to adapt when the final framework lands.
Our HeadteacherChat Community is a safe, supportive space where school leaders connect, share advice, and find solutions together.
Join the conversation today: https://community.headteacherchat.com/feed