Ofsted announces move to proportionate independent school inspections

17 Nov 2006

Following a very positive response to the national consultation, Ofsted will introduce shorter and more frequent inspections of non-association independent schools from 2007.

Two-thirds of respondents to Ofsted’s consultation on changes to independent school inspections were in agreement with the proposals. See a summary of the responses here.

Following the consultation and trials, Ofsted has now finalised the new arrangements which take effect on 1 January 2007.

The main changes are:

inspections will be more frequent – every three years instead of six
inspections will be shorter – typically two days
schools will receive shorter notice of their inspection – two clear working days
local authorities will be asked to complete a questionnaire giving their views about the quality of provision in any school where they place pupils
schools will be asked to complete and submit a school information and self-evaluation form (SIEF)

From summer 2008, the most successful schools will receive an even 'lighter touch' inspection.

To support schools in preparing for these new inspections, the guidance for schools, the Framework for inspecting independent schools and SIEF have been published on the Ofsted website today. Additionally, half day seminars are being held for schools that have not already been inspected under the present arrangements, and who will be inspected under the new arrangements between January 2007 and Easter 2008.

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Ofsted announces move to proportionate independent school inspections

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