The Ofsted Inspection Framework: 2025 Updates
In September 2025, Ofsted published Improving the way Ofsted inspects education: report on the responses to the consultation. Alongside this a suite of new inspection framework documents and inspection toolkits have been released which you can find below. As anticipated, the changes will see the introduction of a new report card system with a 5-point scale grading system, and a much greater focus on disadvantaged children and children with SEND.
From statutory documents for schools and settings, to latest research reports, blogs and videos – we hope you find this curated ‘one stop shop’ valuable and timesaving.
As a reminder, our Senior Leader Briefing is a great way to ensure you are kept up to date with the latest information from Ofsted, including these latest updates about the Ofsted Inspection Framework.
These Senior Leader Briefings provide school leaders with clarity, advice and guidance to understand the implications of the latest national issues and policy direction.
Below are key documents from Ofsted:
The education inspection framework sets out how Ofsted inspects registered early years settings, maintained schools, academies, non-association independent schools and further education and skills provision in England
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Guidance for inspectors and providers on inspecting registered early years settings in England under the renewed education inspection framework, available for use from 10 November 2025
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Guidance for inspectors and schools on inspecting maintained schools and academies in England under the renewed education inspection framework, available for use from 10 November 2025
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Part 1 – A series of research reviews focused on the pre-school age range, from birth to 4 years
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Part 2 – Examine the factors that contribute to developing young children’s knowledge and skills in the 3 Prime Areas
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Part 3 – This considers the 4 Specific Areas of Learning and how they are strengthened
More infoOfsted Inspection Framework 2025 Changes
This video provides a summary of the changes to the Inspection Framework. In the video, Ofsted’s Chief Inspector, Sir Martyn Oliver, provides details of the response to the consultation, and how, from 10 November 2025, Ofsted inspections will look and feel different.
You can also explore Ofsted’s official YouTube Channel on which they share updates on current inspection models and future plans.
Keep up to date with the Ofsted Inspection Framework
Being up to date with the changes in the Ofsted Inspection Framework is crucial for schools and settings. Share this page with your team to ensure you’re ready for the new framework and sign up to our newsletters below to see how we can help you navigate the new inspection landscape.