Ofsted Inspections: What to Expect | Circle Early Years

It is understandable that nursery managers worry about an Ofsted inspection. You are responsible for the children, supporting your team and trying to make sure the inspector sees a fair picture of your setting. That is a lot to manage alongside a normal nursery day.

Preparation often centres on what inspectors might ask. But knowing what you can expect from the inspector matters too.

Ofsted’s code of conduct sets out expectations for inspectors and providers during inspection. It is worth reading before your next visit, so you know where you stand.

Inspection should be a professional discussion

Inspectors are expected to work fairly and sensitively, consider staff wellbeing and base their evaluations on evidence. Providers also have a responsibility to be open and honest, and to help inspectors see how the setting operates.

As a former Ofsted Early Years Regulatory Inspector, I know how much depends on the conversations that take place during a visit. Staff need to be able to explain what they do, and inspectors need to listen and ask questions that help them understand the children’s experiences.

That does not mean every conversation will feel comfortable. An inspector may challenge a decision or identify something that needs improving. You should still have the opportunity to explain your thinking and share relevant evidence.

If you do not understand a question, ask for clarification. If you think something has been misunderstood, say so.

What if you disagree with the inspector?

It can be difficult to speak up when you are already feeling under pressure. However, if an important piece of information has been missed, raise it while there is still time to discuss it.

For example, an inspector may see a child struggling to join an activity. The key person might be able to explain that, a few weeks ago, the child could not tolerate being near the group. That context helps the inspector understand the progress the child is making, as well as the support they still need.

You could say: “Could we come back to that? I don’t think we have explained this child’s progress clearly.”

A concern about the inspector’s conduct is a different matter. Ofsted’s guidance advises raising this promptly with the lead inspector and, if it remains unresolved, contacting Ofsted to speak to a senior leader. Keep a factual note of the concern, what was discussed and any action agreed.

Helping staff talk about their practice

For nursery inspection preparation, I would start with the children your team already know well.

Ask a practitioner to tell you about a child: what they enjoy, what they find difficult and what the practitioner is doing to help. Then ask how they know that support is making a difference.

There is plenty to discuss in an ordinary day. Why does one child need more time at a transition? How does the key person recognise when a baby needs a quieter space? What has helped a child begin to communicate their needs?

These conversations can show you where staff understand their practice and where they need more support. They also give practitioners experience of putting their knowledge into words, without learning a script for inspection.

The same applies to safeguarding and care routines. A member of staff may know the policy, but can they explain what they would actually do if they were worried about a child? Do the arrangements for meals and sleep work when the room is busy or a colleague is absent?

Those are useful questions throughout the year.

Take a fresh look at your setting

Before an inspection, make time to watch what happens during the day. Pay particular attention to the routines that can become so familiar that nobody questions them.

Look at how long children wait, how adults respond when children become distressed and whether children who need additional support can take part. Talk to staff about what you notice. There may be a good reason for an approach, or something that could be changed quite easily.

Use the current early years inspection documents alongside the EYFS to inform your review. Keep the focus on what the requirements mean for the children in your care.

Mock Ofsted inspections and early years support

It can be hard to step back and look closely at your own provision when you are managing it every day. An independent visit gives you time to do that, with someone who can ask questions, discuss concerns and help you decide what needs attention.

I offer mock Ofsted inspections, consultancy and staff training through Circle Early Years Consultancy. My experience includes working as an Ofsted inspector, running my own childcare provision and teaching early years practitioners.

During a visit, I look at everyday practice, talk with staff and help leaders identify strengths and priorities for improvement. The aim is for you to leave with a clearer understanding of your setting and practical next steps.

I am based in West Sussex and work with nurseries, preschools and childminders across England.

If you would like support with your setting, please get in touch. I would be happy to discuss what would be useful for you.

Circle Early Years Consultancy is an independent service and is not affiliated with Ofsted.