This thread is dedicated to keeping you informed about the most important updates and reforms from Ofsted. From new inspection frameworks to the introduction of school report cards, we’ll break down the changes that affect schools and explain what they mean in practice.

Posted: 27th September 2024

With the new academic term well under way, what updates have Ofsted announced, and what changes can you expect over the next few months?

September 2024

• Removal of single-word judgements: On 2nd September 2024, the government announced that Ofsted’s practice of issuing single-word headline grades (e.g. “Outstanding”, “Good”, “Requires Improvement”, “Inadequate”) for schools would be scrapped with immediate effect. This reform aims to provide a more comprehensive picture of school performance rather than a single, reductive label.
• Transition to school report cards: These new report cards, set to launch in September 2025, will offer a more detailed assessment of schools. Although the specific categories have not been confirmed, Ofsted has indicated that inclusion and safeguarding will be a key focus. These report cards will evaluate how a school supports vulnerable pupils, such as those with special education needs and disabilities (SEND), and how well safeguarding measures are implemented.
• Also, attendance is likely to be given more focused attention, possibly as a standalone category, given its importance in the current education challenges. The full framework for these report cards is expected to be finalised in the formal consultation in early 2025.

October 2024

• Removal of subject deep-dives: Ungraded inspections (Section 8) will resume fully with significant changes, including the reduction of subject deep dives. While deep dives will no longer be standard practice, they may still occur if certain criteria are met, such as concerns that require further investigation. Instead, inspectors will primarily rely on extended learning walks and discussions with school leaders to assess the impact of the school’s curriculum and pupils’ personal development. This reform is designed to reduce pressure on schools, particularly smaller primaries.
• From Autumn 2024, Ofsted will be piloting a change where schools will only be notified of inspections on Mondays, with the actual inspections taking place on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. This change is designed to reduce the stress and uncertainty of waiting for inspections.

Early 2025

• Consultation on a new inspection framework: Ofsted will launch a formal consultation on a new inspection framework, which will replace the current system. The new framework will focus more on pupil outcomes and aim to alleviate inspection-related stress.
• Introduction of regional improvement teams: Set to launch in early 2025, these regional teams will work with schools identified as needing improvement. These teams will offer voluntary support, meaning that schools won’t be forced into heavy-handed interventions or management changes unless necessary. Instead, the teams will collaborate with school leaders to directly address weaknesses, tailoring their approach based on each school’s specific needs.

September 2025

• Launch of new inspection framework & school report cards: The new Ofsted inspection framework will go live, marking the start of the school report cards system. The report cards will replace the current grading system, offering a more nuanced picture of school performance.