Ofsted Implement Reforms but Neglect the EYS
Ofsted Implement Reforms but Neglect the EYS
On the 12th June 2023, Ofsted announced multiple reforms that would be implemented with immediate effect. These included reinspection happening more quickly, within 3 months, if a school is graded inadequate for safeguarding issues only. There is also an expansion of the Educational Support charity so that it can support 500 extra head teachers with well-being issues and a further expansion for mental health and well-being support beyond March 2024. Lastly, a consultation process will run until 15th September 2023 to improve the complaints procedure.
However, disappointingly for the Early Years Sector, only the complaints consultation process applies to them. All the other reforms apply solely to Schools. The disapproval that the sector has been ignored by these reforms was reflected by multiple industry organisations and across social media. The Early Years Alliance expressed their disapproval at Ofsted seemingly ignoring the impact of inspections on the early years sector. Whereas the National Day Nurseries Association focused more on the positives about the chance to change the complaints process but added the inspectors must recognise the challenges the sector faces. It is unclear whether any changes that will imminently impact the Early Years sector will be announced but the continuous pressure by the sector suggests that something must change.
The results of the complaints consultation will likely result in future changes. With some of the proposals outlined including:
• Enhancing' on-site professional dialogue during inspections
• Introducing a new opportunity for providers to contact Ofsted the day after an inspection
• Introducing new arrangements for finalising reports and considering formal challenges to inspection outcomes.
• Replacing the current internal review process with a direct escalation to the Independent Complaints Adjudication Service for Ofsted
You can take part in the complaint's consultation here. Also, a reminder that as a Morton Michel Childcare, Education, and Children's Activities policyholder, you and your staff have free, confidential access to counselling services. Find out more.