Ofsted Common Inspection Framework 2012 update

On September 1 Ofsted started inspecting with a revised Common Inspection Framework and methodology. The republished Handbook for further education and skills 2012 is now available from the Ofsted website.

The Handbook is in two parts; the first explains the new methodology and the second explains the key criteria that inspectors must consider when making judgements in different learning and skills contexts.

There have been a number of key changes made, for example the period of notice of inspection has been reduced from ‘two to three weeks’ to ‘up to two working days’. Also, all providers which were satisfactory as of 1 September 2012 will be inspected within two years of this date. If a provider inspected from September 2012 onwards receives a grade 3 for their overall effectiveness, they will be deemed as 'requires improvement' and receive another full inspection 12-18 months later. Finally, the revised framework has an increased emphasis on teaching, learning and assessment.

You can find further guidance on the Ofsted website including an ‘inspection ready’ form to help you prepare for short notice inspection.

In addition Ofsted has published How colleges improve, a report commissioned by LSIS and Ofsted to highlight how colleges can build on best practice and ensure the education and training they are providing is at least good or outstanding.

Ofsted’s National Director for Learning and Skills, Matthew Coffey said: “This report highlights the effective practice of successful colleges in raising standards as well as examining factors which can lead to decline. This review should be used as a guide for college governors and staff to disseminate good practice, helping them to understand how to improve performance and overcome barriers that may lead to decline.”