The changes aim to provide more nuanced evaluations, including the introduction of detailed report cards assessing multiple areas of practice, a stronger focus on inclusion, and more tailored inspection approaches.
Through a public consultation, Ofsted sought the views of the wider education sector on these proposals. In our response, we:
- Welcome the greater emphasis on support for pupils from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, but suggest that inclusion might be better integrated within other evaluation areas rather than addressed separately.
- Highlight potential risks associated with the increased volume of inspection areas, including the implications for workload.
- Emphasise the importance of ensuring inspectors are supported to make consistent judgements, particularly as part of the implementation of any changes.
- Identify opportunities for the proposed toolkits to further reflect the full range of relevant research evidence.