Ofsted introduced a system of “light touch” inspections in September 2005. Schools are now inspected every three years instead of every six, and inspection reports are shorter, as is the inspection itself.

To counter concern that schools were making a special effort for an inspection, Ofsted also moved to short-notice visits, a few days instead of several months.

The self-evaluation form now forms the basis of an inspection, and schools are encouraged to keep them updated, although it is not compulsory to fill in the form.

Before September 2005, Ofsted ranked schools in seven categories. In 2004-05, the last year under the old system, 26 per cent of secondaries and 19 per cent of primaries were ranked excellent or very good; 44 per cent of secondaries and 49 per cent of primaries were ranked good; 23 per cent of secondaries and 27 per cent of primaries were ranked satisfactory; and 7 per cent of secondaries and 4 per cent of primaries were ranked unsatisfactory, poor or very poor.

From September 2005, a system of four rankings was introduced. In 2005-06, 11 per cent of schools were classed as outstanding; 48 per cent good; 34 per cent satisfactory, and 8 per cent inadequate.


Resources

Is Ofsted fir for purpose?

Ofsted: short-notice inspections

Teacher's survival guide