How Ofsted inspects inclusion

Understand how Ofsted will inspect the new evaluation area of inclusion in your school. Find out about the criteria from the 2025 framework.

Last reviewed on 26 May 2026
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 45756
Contents
  1. Inclusion is graded on a 5-point scale
  2. Inclusion focuses on how well your school supports particular pupil groups
  3. Inspectors will gather evidence relating to 6 key factors
  4. Inspectors will consider your school's use of alternative provision
  5. How your school will be graded
  6. Next steps

Inclusion is graded on a 5-point scale

Inclusion is 1 of the evaluation areas that will appear on your school’s inspection report card. 

Each evaluation area will be graded using Ofsted’s new 5-point grading system, with Ofsted expecting most schools to attain at least an 'expected standard' in each area. The exception is safeguarding, which is either 'met' or 'not met'.

The grades are:

  • Exceptional
  • Strong standard
  • Expected standard
  • Needs attention
  • Urgent improvement

Inclusion was previously considered part of the 'personal development' judgement, but has now been pulled out into its own evaluation area and will receive its own grading.

Inclusion focuses on how well your school supports particular pupil groups

Are socioeconomically disadvantaged Defined in the toolkit as being eligible for the pupil premium Have special educational needs (SEN) and/or a disability This means pupils receiving SEN support, and those with an education, health and care (EHC) plan Are known or were previously