Monthly Insights

Why do many providers find inspection a challenge? Nationally, across the FE sector, the proportion of inspections RI or poor is slowly rising. Why? Is it that Ofsted is becoming more critical, provision is getting weaker or something completely different? Is there a pattern or a trend? The analysis is fascinating. When we ‘run the […]

An update on Ofsted inspection outcomes At the end of September, our six-month data analysis indicates providers graded inadequate and requiring improvement are increasing, with over 28% of inspections from April to September appearing in this category. There is a greater focus on retention data and outcomes in more recent inspections. We know there is […]

An update on Ofsted inspection outcomes over the summer Analysis of inspection outcomes across the sector shows 22% of providers ‘require improvement’. While good and better grades are an improving trend, we can see patterns emerging. Career advice and guidance are common areas for improvement. However, staff skills and CPD are also frequently commented on. […]

Are you content with ‘good’? Many providers are quite content, or even relieved to hear final feedback stating ‘over all effectiveness is good’. But why should you be content, Ofsted will return in around four years and the goal posts, or possible the whole pitch will have moved. As soon as inspectors leave begin preparations […]

Received the ‘call’ but not sufficiently prepared We frequently hear providers say their inspection experience wasn’t quite what they expected, if you haven’t been inspected recently, or inspected under the EIF, it’s perhaps understandable. Every inspection has a planning call with the lead inspector two days in advance of the actual inspection, use this opportunity […]

Inspection Insights – Precise and incisive We are seeing more use of the word ‘precise’ in published reports, here’s an example.  “Teachers take a methodical approach to assessing students during lessons, through peer assessment, through weekly homework and through mock examinations. They provide precise feedback that helps students to understand what they have done well […]

Spotlight on Ofsted inspection The spotlight continues to focus on Ofsted with schools and teaching unions demanding change. Debate includes all aspects of the inspection process, grading and impact. While the focus is currently on schools, what about FE&S? Do the post evaluation feedback forms provide Ofsted with an accurate picture? Sadly not. Many concerns […]