Guidance

Summary of changes

Updated 5 April 2024

Applies to England

This sets out changes we have made to reflect our inspection practice.

April 2024

Paragraph 27: clarification that, when applying the handbook, inspectors will take appropriate action to comply with Ofsted’s duties under the Equality Act 2010.

Paragraph 80: clarification of Ofsted’s pause policy and when inspectors will contact the duty desk regarding well-being.

Paragraph 85: clarifications regarding opportunities to discuss and/or provide information on potential equalities duties, including reasonable adjustments for individuals. 

Paragraphs 137 to 138: clarification regarding updated arrangements for handling concerns and complaints in line with Ofsted’s new complaints process. 

Paragraph 152: clarification regarding updated arrangements for quality assurance in line with Ofsted’s new complaints process. 

Paragraphs 155 to 157: clarification regarding updated arrangements for handling concerns and complaints in line with Ofsted’s new complaints process.

January 2024

Paragraph 7: clarification regarding the expectations for inspectors’ conduct during inspections.

Paragraph 11: clarification regarding the scope of the inspection.

Paragraph 80: clarification regarding the expectations for inspectors’ conduct during inspections.

Clarification regarding how inspectors should engage with staff and leaders and respond if they see or suspect that a staff member or leader is upset or distressed.

Paragraph 85: clarification regarding the set up call.

Paragraphs 105,109, 112, 127, 128 and 132: clarification regarding meetings with/speaking to inspectors to reflect who may be present.

Paragraph 133: clarification on who the inspection outcome might be shared with.

Paragraph 155 and 156: updated to reflect how leaders may raise concerns.

November 2022

Following a review of the consultation responses we received during June to September 2022, we have reviewed the draft framework and handbook document in full. This is accompanied by a person-level data template.