Most providers say Ofsted's new inspections were respectful
The first findings from independent research into Ofsted's renewed inspections in England, including early years, were published on 9 October 2026.
What it means for you
- Most providers found the new inspections respectful and fair to their context.
- Plan for your team's wellbeing during an inspection: it is still the main pressure providers report.
- Look out for the full report in 2027.
Ofsted has published the first findings from independent research into its renewed inspections in England. IFF Research asked school, early years and further education leaders inspected from January to April 2026.
The figures cover everyone who answered, not early years alone.
- 88% said their inspection was conducted respectfully.
- 76% said it was collaborative, and 78% said it was empathetic.
- 81% said their report card accurately described what it is like to be a child or learner there.
- 74% said inspectors sought to take account of their setting's unique context.
Workload and wellbeing are still the clearest challenges. 4 out of 10 providers said inspection affected their own or their staff's mental wellbeing a fair amount or a lot.
IFF will publish a full report in 2027, covering the first full year of inspections under the renewed framework.
Over the border: In Scotland, settings are inspected by the Care Inspectorate and HM Inspectors of Education, not Ofsted. News for Scotland
Official sources
How this story was made. This story was written with help from AI from the official sources below, then checked and approved by the Hubba Training team before it went live.
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