Kerry Boffey of FIN identifies changes in the Ofsted operating guide and toolkit which require provider attention before September.
Providers preparing for inspection should pay as much attention to Ofsted’s ‘Further education and skills operating guide for inspectors: for use from September 2026’ as the changes to the inspection toolkit.
Good preparation saves time and generates confidence that the visit will go well. At the Fellowship of Inspection Nominees (FIN), we have reviewed the latest editions of the operating guide and the toolkit. While some of changes for September appear subtle, FIN will be tracking the impact of changes and sharing our findings.
Case sampling of learners or apprentices is an example of where potential worry can be avoided. Currently the lead inspector and the provider will agree on the samples on day 1 of the visit, but from the autumn agreement will be reached beforehand in the planning call and then confirmed on the first day. This is a welcome change for both parties: longer notice will increase the chances of the inspector getting exactly what they want, while for the provider it takes away some of the last-minute rush to make arrangements.
There is another new obligation on the inspector in relation to the single central record (SCR). Previously, the inspector should plan to check the SCR after the orientation meeting and as soon as possible at the start of the inspection. In future the record must be checked after the meeting. It’s a subtle change from should to must. Focusing the priority avoids issues being discovered later in the inspection. Again, this clarity is beneficial for both parties.
From September, the provider may be given an indicative grade for one valuation area by the end of day 1 although it may not be as quick during a longer visit. This will be accompanied by a statement that no further evidence will be gathered in that area. This occurs after the inspection team has identified reliable evidence indicating a ‘secure fit’ around an evaluation area, and the nominee agrees with the judgement. Inspectors have always used the triangulation of evidence as a robust methodology. Providers sometimes experienced inspectors cancelling meetings or interviews during inspection and as a result would be fearful of the reason. In reality it was as a result of the inspector reaching a firm judgment. This process formalises this procedure and, with the secure fit model, is a welcome confirmation.
The importance of the nominee’s role is underlined by a change in the conducting of dialogue between the inspection team and the provider. End-of-day reflection meetings will in future only take place with the nominee as opposed to the provider’s leaders. The role of the nominee and shadow nominee is an evolving role. While this change to the daily structure appears small, the significance is not. Experienced nominees are equally at risk, assuming their experience will guide them through because of success previously. Keeping sharp and up to date with changes and expectations is critical. The FIN residential inspection bootcamps are often an eye-opener for the most experienced nominees who need to be shown new techniques that minimise risk and increase chances of success.
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