Research and analysis

Independent review of careers guidance in specialist settings

Ofsted's review into careers guidance in specialist settings.

Applies to England

Documents

Details

In 2022, the Department for Education (DfE) asked Ofsted to review careers provision in specialist settings. The scope of the review was careers guidance for 11- to 19-year-olds (and for young people up to age 25 with a current education, health and care (EHC) plan) in special schools, independent specialist colleges (ISCs) and pupil referral units (PRUs). 

In the summer term 2023, we made 12 research visits to 5 special schools, 3 PRUs and 4 ISCs. We also gathered evidence from:

  • interviews with HM Inspectors (HMIs) and with local authority officers
  • focus groups with key stakeholders and employers
  • a review of a sample of inspection evidence

In 2023, we also published an independent review of careers guidance in schools and further education and skills providers.

Published 22 February 2024