Mock Ofsted Inspections for Early Years Settings
Circle Early Years Consultancy provides realistic, supportive mock Ofsted inspections for nurseries, preschools and childminders, led by former Ofsted Early Years Regulatory Inspector Zoe Duggan.
Each mock inspection reflects current Ofsted expectations and helps you understand what is working well, identify areas to strengthen and prepare confidently for inspection.
What is a Mock Ofsted Inspection?
A mock Ofsted inspection provides an independent review of your setting through an inspection lens. It gives leaders and practitioners an opportunity to reflect on practice, explore likely lines of enquiry and identify priorities before an Ofsted inspection takes place.
Read our BLOG:
https://www.circletrainingandsupport.co.uk/blog/3178807_what-is-a-mocksted-inspection
As Featured in Nursery World
Are mock inspections worth it?
https://www.nurseryworld.co.uk/content/management/management-queries-are-mock-inspections-worth-it
Who this is for?
Mock Ofsted inspections are available for:
- Nurseries and preschools
- Childminders and childminders working together
- Independent schools with early years provision
- Settings preparing for inspection
- Providers wanting an independent review of quality and compliance
- Settings following an Ofsted inspection or regulatory action
What does a Mock Ofsted Inspection include?
- A full review aligned with current Ofsted early years inspection expectations
- Observation of practice and children's experiences
- Professional discussion with leaders and practitioners
- Review of safeguarding, leadership, curriculum and statutory requirements
- Clear, practical feedback identifying strengths and priorities
- A written report and follow-up discussion
Areas we may explore
- Safeguarding
- quality of education
- child development
- interactions
- behaviour and attitudes
- SEND and inclusion
- leadership and management
- staff knowledge
- curriculum
- welfare requirements
Supportive, but realistic
A mock inspection isn't about catching people out. My approach is supportive, professional and honest, giving you a realistic picture of your setting and clear priorities for improvement.
Why choose Circle Early Years Consultancy
Mock Ofsted inspections are led by Zoe Duggan, a former Ofsted Early Years Regulatory Inspector (EYRI) with extensive experience as an early years provider, practitioner and lecturer.
This combination of regulatory and practical experience provides a realistic, supportive review – with honest feedback and clear recommendations you can actually use.
Support Beyond Your Mock Inspection
Support doesn't have to end with your mock inspection. I can provide post-inspection support, improvement planning, regulatory guidance and follow-up consultancy where further help is needed.
Book Your Mock Ofsted Visit
Whether you're preparing for inspection, looking for an independent review or want to understand where your setting currently stands, I can help.
