This article is based on the School Inspection Handbook (2024) and is about graded inspections (previously known as section 5 inspections).
Visit our other article if you need information on ungraded inspections under the new inspection handbook.
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
Following this call, you'll get a confirmation via email and a letter setting out key information for you to look at.
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 in line with Ofsted's deferral policy.
After you've been notified, the lead inspector