A116. Critical Inspection Stages - Setting the Direction - Planning

Led by Maria Navarro, former Senior Specialist Adviser at Ofsted, key architect in the development of the renewed inspection framework, this series examines the critical stages of an Ofsted inspection under the renewed framework, including the revisions in place from September 2026. This is a comprehensive series across 3 events. From the notification call and planning week through inspection activity and post‑inspection outcomes, it explores how decisions, evidence‑gathering, and professional judgement at each stage shape direction, impact, and final judgements. In our second session we will delve into Ofsted's new inspection methodology, case sampling and learning walks. This session will cover: A deeper understanding of Ofsted’s approach to learning walks within Further Education and Skills. The practical application of learning walks, including identifying the colleagues best placed to participate. How to select learning walks that most effectively showcase the strengths of your provision. Strategies for establishing and sustaining high-quality professional dialogue when leading learning walks. Insight into what Ofsted is seeking through case sampling. How to evidence inclusivity across your provision through effective case sampling preparation. Delegates will gain: Unique insights into Ofsted’s concept of a learning walk for Further Education and Skills providers. Understanding of most suitable learning walks to showcase their provision’s strengths. Skills in ensuring professional dialogue is maintained during learning walks. Knowledge of how to help inspectors through the case sampling activities to maximise understanding of what inclusion is like in their provision. This session is aimed at nominees, shadow nominees, senior leaders and managers who might take part in the inspection planning call or represent the provision during the inspection, including quality managers.