Ofsted will start visiting schools and colleges after the summer
holidays to see how they are getting back up to speed, after
being closed to most pupils and learners for so long.
Ofsted has announced a programme of ‘visits’, not inspections,
that will aim to reassure parents, Ministers and the public about
how schools and colleges are managing the return to full
education of their pupils and students. Inspectors will use the
visits to work collaboratively with leaders, listening and
providing appropriate challenge. Ofsted will report back on the
national picture across England.
The visits will not be graded. Instead, the outcomes of the
discussions with school and college leaders will be published in
a brief letter so that parents can understand what steps are
being taken to help children back into full time education.
The visits will be piloted with volunteer schools and colleges
from September. A return to full education inspection is planned
for January 2021, but this date will be kept under review.
Amanda Spielman, Ofsted’s Chief Inspector, said:
“I’ve been impressed at the hard work and can-do attitude of so
many teachers, heads and pupils in such uncertain and difficult
times. When schools and colleges open their doors fully in
September, they will face a new set of challenges, but also a
huge opportunity to rekindle children’s love of learning.
“Ofsted will be part of the rebuilding effort from September. Our
visits will help parents understand how schools and colleges are
getting children and students back up to speed after so long at
home. And we want to help schools, by having constructive
conversations and not passing judgement. We all share the same
aim – helping this unique generation make up for lost time and
get the high-quality education they deserve.”
Ofsted’s vital regulatory work in children’s social care,
nurseries and childminders has continued throughout lockdown to
make sure that standards are being maintained and that there is
well-run, safe and effective social care and childcare available
when needed. Where necessary enforcement action has continued.
From the Autumn, visits will also be made to regulated nurseries
and childminders to monitor progress and regulatory standards,
prioritising those where we have concerns as well as looking at a
wider sample. Local authorities and children’s social care
providers, including children’s homes, will also receive visits
from Ofsted inspectors, to check on the experience and progress
of children needing protection or care. These visits will not be
graded, but if we have serious concerns, we will use our
enforcement powers.
