How Ofsted inspects alternative provision
Learn how Ofsted inspects pupil referral units (PRUs) and alternative provision (AP) academies. You'll also find information covering inspection of off-site units and residential provision.
Contents
AP settings are inspected like schools
Alternative provision (AP) settings are inspected by Ofsted under the section 5 and section 8 handbooks in the same way as schools, and the grade descriptors set out throughout the handbooks also apply.
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Please note that inspections for independent schools are slightly different to those for maintained schools. Check the social care common inspection framework (SCCIF) for more details.
Unannounced behaviour inspections
You could receive one under section 8 if Ofsted has concerns about behaviour and attitudes. They're:
One of the ways in which inspectors will look at behaviour in pupil referral units (PRUs) is by observing pupils as they get out of taxis and minibuses. They'll ask pupils how they were supervised and whether any bullying took place
Read next
- Questions Ofsted might ask about inclusion and attendance
- Outstanding practice in alternative provision: examples
- Alternative provision: how to choose and work with providers
- Ofsted inspection: curriculum FAQs for small schools, special schools, PRUs and AP settings
- Alternative provision: curriculum requirements and examples