DfE publishes new enrichment framework and benchmarks: summary

Find out how the DfE's enrichment framework should be used to plan, strengthen and review your enrichment offer, and how your school will be inspected in this area.

New
on 18 June 2026
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 46617
Contents
  1. What is enrichment?
  2. What activities should be included?
  3. What are the enrichment benchmarks?
  4. Leaders should review provision against the benchmarks and plan improvements
  5. How will Ofsted inspect your offer?
  6. What additional funding and support is available?
  7. Next steps

The DfE has published its enrichment framework to help schools and colleges design and deliver a high-quality enrichment offer for all pupils and students. The guidance is non-statutory, but Ofsted will consider how your school's offer has regard to the framework from September 2026 (read more about this below)

What is enrichment?

Enrichment refers to activities and experiences that go beyond your school's standard curriculum to support pupils' personal development and wellbeing, help them explore interests, try new activities and develop valuable skills for their future.

What activities should be included?

Civic engagement – e.g. volunteering, debating, school and college democracy, community engagement Arts and culture – e.g. taking part in, and having live experiences of music, art, dance, theatre and other expressive arts; museum and gallery visits Nature, outdoors and adventure – e.g. time outdoors, climate education and sustainability projects, gardening, residentials