Is your setting ready for Ofsted?
Ofsted inspections can be a daunting experience for practitioners and managers. It can seem that years of hard work and best practice will be judged in one day, so it is crucial that settings are fully prepared and feel confident in themselves. Mock inspections are a great way to practise for an inspection and evaluate the provision.
Every Ofsted inspection is different, with each inspector having a different opinion or view of the inspection criteria. The inspector will use the Common Inspection Framework as a guide to mark the provision; however the type of questions asked or information gathered will vary. This can make it difficult for settings to know exactly what to expect, leaving practitioners and managers feeling unprepared. To meet all eventualities, settings should ensure that they cover all areas and support their staff through training and mentoring opportunities.
Settings can access the Common Inspection Handbook to support them in preparing for Ofsted and outline the areas that will be assessed; however it is vague and not very clear to read. Early Years Careers have created a Mock Inspection Booklet containing supporting documents to carry out a mock inspection in your setting.