This article is based on the School Inspection Handbook (2024) and is about graded inspections (previously known as section 5 inspections).
We're in the process of updating our article on ungraded inspections in line with the new inspection handbook. Select 'save for later' at the top of that article to be notified when we've updated it.
Before the inspection
Notification
Ofsted will contact you by phone to announce the inspection, after 9.30am on the Monday before the inspection. They'll ask to speak to the most senior member of staff available.
During this call, Ofsted will check:
- The number of pupils you have on roll
- Whether any adults live on your premises
You can also request a deferral during this initial call, or at the earliest opportunity afterwards, before the inspection starts. A decision will be made
