Home / Schools/Academies / School Improvement / Preparing for Ofsted

Preparing for Ofsted

We have not done our job as inspectors unless we have left people with a clear picture of how things are and a crystal clear agenda for improvement.

HMCI, Ofsted

All schools want to ensure that their Ofsted report fully reflects their success, so:

  • What is the best way to prepare for an Ofsted inspection?
  • Would an Ofsted-style review help your school?

Best Practice Network provides support for the whole process of inspection and review. Only fully accredited and experienced School Improvement Advisers with Ofsted qualifications and experience undertake this work.

Who is this for: 

All schools will be inspected under a new framework from January 2012 with a much stronger emphasis on the quality of teaching. This Best Practice Network programme will support schools through the process of preparing for an inspection as well as providing a clear judgement on the current performance of the school. Schools that are currently rated outstanding may also be interested in an external perspective on current performance.

What are the benefits: 

The programme will:

  • work with the school to fully prepare for the inspection
  • undertake observations, scrutiny of work and interviews to honestly reflect the school's strengths and weaknesses
  • clarify the inspection rating reflected by the review process
  • help generate an Action Plan to continue preparation for inspection and assist the school's performance to further improve.
How is it delivered: 

The programme is flexible depending upon the needs and size of the school.  A typical package will involve a pre-visit to meet the head teacher, chair of governors and staff; a two day review including teacher observation, scrutiny of work, interviews with key staff; a feedback session and help with Action Planning.

Schools may opt for a simple briefing on the new inspection framework alone or request a fully-fledged Ofsted-style inspection.  Flexibility is key in the delivery of this particular programme.

How do I apply/find out more: 

For more information, email governance@bestpracticenet.co.uk or call 0117 9209427.