June 2026: Ofsted has updated its inspection guidance documents for 2026/27
Ofsted has published updated versions of its:
- State-funded Schools Inspection Toolkit
- School inspection operating guide for inspectors
- Inspection information for state-funded schools
- School monitoring operating guide for inspectors
These updates will come into force in September 2026, and apply to inspections from then. You should continue to use the current documents, and guidance on GovernorHub, if your school is inspected this term.
Ofsted has also published a summary of its changes (see the last document on the linked page).
There are no major changes to the inspection framework
This is not a new inspection framework, and you don't need to get your head around a new style of inspection before September. Ofsted's methodology, criteria and grading system are broadly the same as in the 2025 framework.
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