How Ofsted inspects alternative provision

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.

Read our articles on:

• Ofsted section 5 inspections 
• Section 8 inspections for 'good' and 'outstanding' schools

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