Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 9
9
Accepted
Paragraph: 34
Consider increasing school inspection notice period to approximately five working days.
Conclusion
Ofsted should consider the case for a small increase in the notice period given to schools—we heard suggestions that around five working days would be appropriate. The notice period should remain relatively short in order to limit the pressure on leaders and avoid a situation where schools are spending a long time preparing for inspection, but should be long enough to ensure that waiting for an inspection does not cause undue difficulties in the way schools operate. Ofsted should also consider whether schools could be given a specific term in which to anticipate an inspection.
Government Response Summary
The government states the "Big Listen" will carefully consider potential changes to notice periods for schools, including the suggested increase and offering a specific inspection term, affirming that nothing is off the table for discussion.
Paragraph Reference:
34
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The Big Listen will play a crucial role as we reflect on our approach to notice periods. Again, we expect to hear a diversity of views from those we inspect and those on whose behalf we inspect. In recent social care work, for example, we heard representations from some professionals working in the sector who were in favour of a longer period of notice. On the other hand, many of the care leavers we spoke with argued strongly for no-notice visits. Through the Big Listen, we will carefully consider the range of views and ensure our approach strikes the right balance. We have been clear that nothing is off the table in the Big Listen. We are happy to consider potential changes to our notice periods for schools, as set out in Recommendations 5 and 6, but we think it is important to involve the sector and parents in this discussion – which we are doing through the Big Listen. As we set out in our evidence to the Committee, we notify schools of an inspection the day before it begins. This reduces the need for schools to prepare and so reduces the potential for increased workload and anxiety for school leaders and staff. Shorter notice periods also mean it is more likely that we will see schools as they operate normally, which we know is a priority for parents. The majority of recommendations will be explored through our ‘Big Listen’ (Recommendations 1, 3, 5 to 8, 10, 13, 20 to 22 and 24 to 25). We look forward to hearing the sector’s, and the public’s, views on these important matters, and will take action immediately after the Big Listen concludes.