Please find below a comment from the Early Years Alliance on Ofsted’s new inspection framework. 

Neil Leitch, CEO of the Early Years Alliance, said:

“Given that our own research found that Ofsted inspections are the single biggest source of stress among early years providers and that the vast majority of settings are in favour of the removal of single-word judgements, we welcome the move towards a more nuanced approach to early years inspection.

“While questions still remain over how some elements of the new framework will work in practice, it’s clear that Ofsted has listened to the views of both parents and carers, and those working in the education sector, and this collaborative approach is undoubtedly welcome.

“Of course, it remains to be seen how the changes announced today translate into day-to-day practice, and it is absolutely vital that going forward, educators are able to feel confident that their inspection will be fair, balanced and supportive, whatever inspector they get on the day.

“Nevertheless, this is clearly a step in the right direction and we look forward to working with Ofsted to support the successful implementation of this new approach to inspection.”