Preparing for inspection

Highlights from school evaluation and improvement

  • How to follow up an Ofsted inspection at one of your schools
    Follow our guide for trust leaders so that you can provide effective support to your schools after they've been inspected by Ofsted. We go through the steps you should take whether your school is judged 'outstanding' or 'inadequate'.
    For Trust Leaders
  • How to keep governors Ofsted-ready
    Update your board regularly on what's going on in your school. If governors are up to speed, they'll feel more ready for an Ofsted inspection. Share our list of questions so they know what inspectors might ask them.
  • Ofsted inspection: curriculum FAQs
    Not sure how Ofsted will inspect your curriculum? Get answers to frequently asked questions under the 2019 framework.
  • Ofsted inspection: curriculum FAQs for small schools, special schools, PRUs and AP settings
    Not sure how the 2019 framework applies to your setting? Get answers to frequently asked questions about curriculum inspection in schools like yours.
  • Ofsted pre-inspection checklist and reminders
    You've received the call from Ofsted that you’re going to be inspected. Download our checklist for headteachers to see what to prepare before they arrive, and share reminders and support with the rest of your staff.
  • Role of school office staff in an Ofsted inspection
    Support staff, including office staff, may be interviewed by Ofsted inspectors. Find out what they should know and how your office staff can help with inspection preparations.
  • Section 48 inspections
    If your school has a designated religious character, you'll receive section 48 inspections on top of standard Ofsted inspections. Be clear on what these inspections are and how they work, so you can be confident in what to expect.
  • SIAMS inspections: what you need to know
    Get ready for your next SIAMS inspection under the 2023 framework and check you're clear on the relationship between these inspections and those conducted by Ofsted.