Preparing yourself for an Ofsted inspection

Top tips for preparing yourself for an Ofsted inspection

As we all know an Ofsted inspection can be very daunting and stressful. Many people welcome the day’s notice from Ofsted, whereas others argue the fact that this could help create a false picture on the day of the inspection. If you are doing everything you should be doing then there shouldn’t be anything to worry about. After receiving the call from Ofsted many managers and practitioners go into meltdown and worry that they are not ready. Having a positive approach can help settle nerves and get you in the right frame of mind for the Ofsted inspection.

Getting the rating good and outstanding are what settings strive to achieve. Outstanding is the top award settings would like to be awarded, but many settings are happy with good. Since the introduction of the Common Inspection Framework, Ofsted inspections are consistent across nurseries and schools. A top tip is to read through this document as there is a section explaining what Ofsted will be looking for during an inspection.

From May 2016 childcare settings SEND provision will be inspected during a routine Ofsted inspection, this is to look at how SEND children are progressing in their learning and development.

Under the new framework, Ofsted will be looking closely at how the British Values are actively promoted in everyday practice. Managers need to understand that it is their responsibility to ensure practitioners understand these and are promoting them. Ofsted will ask practitioners about these so help prepare your team now.

They may also ask managers about the Prevent of Duty as this was announced as part of the new inspection framework. To find out more about The Prevent of Duty click here

If children are in receipt of  the Early Years Pupil Premium Funding Ofsted are very keen on finding out what the funding has been used for and whether it has had an impact on the child’s progress. Always document what the funding has been used for and find an easy and effective way of showing how the funding has made an significant difference to the child.

Managers need to prepare themselves for what the inspector may ask them during an Ofsted inspection. The inspector will not only want to talk to the manager about policies and providers but they will also quiz practitioners. Nine times out of ten practitioners are asked about the safeguarding policy.

A top piece of advice is to read current Ofsted reports and pick out key elements.

The main thing to remember is to be confident in what you do and make sure you tell the inspector all the good things you do. Why not write a list and keep this on your office wall and add to it as you think of others.