Inspection covers Ofsted school inspection in England, including preparation, evidence, safeguarding, curriculum, leadership judgement and practical support before, during and after inspection.

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30 Sept 2026Article

IDSR: what Ofsted's inspection data summary report shows and how inspectors use it

The IDSR is Ofsted's summary of the data available about a school in England. Inspectors use it when preparing for, and during, an inspection, as a starting point rather than a judgement. Schools open it through Ofsted's IDSR service or the DfE's Analyse School Performance service, using DfE Sign-in.

Beyond the label: Why EAL data needs to tell a better story
28 Apr 2026Article

Beyond the label: Why EAL data needs to tell a better story

EAL is too broad a label. Better proficiency data across reading, writing, listening and speaking helps leaders target support, evidence progress and improve provision.

Thoughts on the Final Ofsted Toolkit - More Than Just a Tweak
13 Oct 2025Article

Thoughts on the Final Ofsted Toolkit - More Than Just a Tweak

Final Ofsted Toolkit 2025 - More Than Just a Tweak

Ofsted Education Inspection Reforms: 5 Mins Briefing
8 Sept 2025Article

Ofsted Education Inspection Reforms: 5 Mins Briefing

Ofsted Education Inspection Reforms: Briefing Document

“It Was Done With Us, Not To Us”: A New Chapter in Ofsted Inspections?
6 Apr 2025Article

“It Was Done With Us, Not To Us”: A New Chapter in Ofsted Inspections?

This blog explores a powerful reflection from our HeadteacherChat community about a recent Ofsted inspection that felt collaborative, respectful, and empowering. It highlights how rigorous inspections, when led with empathy and professionalism, can bring out the best in staff and pupils alike. We reflect on what this means for the future of school inspections and why the phrase “with us, not to us” could shape a more positive inspection culture.

A School Leader’s Guide to Early and Accurate Identification of SEND
26 Mar 2025Article

A School Leader’s Guide to Early and Accurate Identification of SEND

A brief summary

What Do You Think of the New Ofsted Report Cards?
3 Feb 2025Article

What Do You Think of the New Ofsted Report Cards?

The recent changes to Ofsted’s school inspection framework, introducing a new "report card" system, have sparked intense debate among educators.

Ofsted's School Inspection Handbook. What you need to know about the September 2024 updates.
16 Sept 2024Article

Ofsted's School Inspection Handbook. What you need to know about the September 2024 updates.

A summary of all the changes in the latest School Inspection Handbook, published by Ofsted 16/09/24

Key changes to ungraded Ofsted inspections starting in the autumn term
17 Jul 2024Article

Key changes to ungraded Ofsted inspections starting in the autumn term

This blog post from Ofsted details the key changes coming to ungraded school inspections in the autumn term, including the elimination of deep dives, a greater emphasis on dialogue with school leaders, and a new pre-inspection phone call to determine focus areas.