How Ofsted inspects 'behaviour and attitudes'

Be clear on how 'behaviour and attitudes' will be inspected in your school under the Ofsted inspection framework.

Last reviewed on 8 March 2024See updates
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 36191
Contents
  1. What inspectors are looking for  
  2. Evidence inspectors will use
  3. How they'll gather evidence
  4. Grade descriptors
  5. Special considerations

As a governing board, you won't be inspected under Ofsted's 'behaviour and attitudes' judgement. Read about out how governance is inspected.

The sections below cover how Ofsted will inspect how well your school staff create a safe, calm, orderly and positive environment, and the impact this has on pupil behaviour and attitudes. 

You don't need to know this information in great detail, as your role involves monitoring behaviour in your school. Find out what questions inspectors might ask governors.

What inspectors are looking for  

A calm and orderly environment in the school and classroom Clear routines and behaviour expectations across all aspects of school life  A strong focus on attendance and punctuality, including clear and effective behaviour and attendance policies that all staff apply consistently and fairly  Note: pupil attendance between March 2020 and March 2021 won't have an impact on Ofsted's judgement of your school (see the School Inspection Handbook, paragraph 303) That your school is developing pupils' motivation and positive