Earlier this year, Ofsted launched its biggest ever consultation ‘The Big Listen’ – asking providers, children, parents and carers opinions on their work and how it can be improved. The findings from this consultation and independent research have led Ofsted to announce some changes to how schools and early years settings will be inspected, and here we have summarised some of the main points that will impact Early Years directly.
One-word judgements
The consultation found that most providers feel that one-word judgements are overly simplistic and are frustrated with the anxiety that these over arching judgements cause. Therefore, Ofsted will work with the government to remove the ‘overall effectiveness’ grade across early year’s inspections within state schools, academies and maintained nursery schools and will instead investigate producing a ‘report card’ which will give judgements for differing areas of the provision. This will enable parents to gain a better understanding of the strengths of providers. Ofsted have said they are committed to removing headline grades for all other early year’s settings but are yet to confirm a time frame of when this will happen.
Reform of Early Years inspection
The consultation found that providers want a change in the way inspections are carried out, including more consideration to be given to the size of the setting, the number of hours that childcare is provided and the area and demographic that they serve. A new Early Years inspection framework will be created to enable more flexibility to different types of settings, whilst still upholding the principles of the EYFS. The new inspection framework will include a focus on communication and language skills and will also continue to put the welfare, well-being and safety of children at the forefront.
Ofsted Training Academy
Providers responding to the consultation, felt that they had less confidence in inspections when they believed that the inspector had low level of sector knowledge, therefore Ofsted will introduce the Ofsted Academy which will enable them to change the way they recruit, train and develop staff, including inspectors.
Demand for places
Ofsted will be supporting the government’s plans to meet the demand for childcare places by supporting the opening of nurseries on primary school sites and streamlining the registration process, including updating guidance and ensuring that all processes are clear. They have also pledged to share more resources, including attending more events where they are able to speak about their insights.
Multiple providers
60% of those who took part in The Big Listen felt that Ofsted need to review their approach to inspecting multiple providers, such as early years groups or chains therefore Ofsted will review how multiple providers are registered, inspected and regulated. This will be done by working with the government to amend legislation.
Further information and the full report can be found on the Consultation Outcome webpage.
References
Jo Watkins
