Ofsted is set to revamp early years inspections and regulations, moving away from a single-word judgment for early years settings. These reforms, confirmed in response to the inspectorate’s Big Listen, also include the introduction of a new inspection framework.
Ofsted has outlined the following changes to early years inspection and regulation:
- Removal of the Overall Effectiveness Grade: This will be replaced by a new report card system, to be introduced in September 2025. The inspectorate will consult on the design of the report card later this academic year.
- New Early Years Inspection Framework: This framework will be more adaptable to different types of early years settings.
- Launch of the Ofsted Academy: This academy aims to improve inspector training, with a particular focus on retaining inspectors. Despite the focus on retention, Ofsted currently has 15,000 expressions of interest for inspector roles and a waiting list for HMIs, according to Chief Inspector Sir Martyn Oliver.
- Single Point of Contact for Early Years: Jayne Coward has been appointed as the new early years national lead, working across regulation and inspection. She will ensure that the sector’s needs and voices are considered in all decision-making processes.
- Streamlined Registration Process: Ofsted plans to clarify and simplify the registration process for all applicants, making sure the options and process are clear.
Unlike schools, the transition from a single-word judgment to a report card for the early years sector will not happen immediately.
Until this change is implemented, all registered early years settings, including childminder agencies, will continue to receive an overall effectiveness grade alongside sub-judgments.
The inspectorate is also urging the Government to review legislation related to the Childcare Register to address fraud within the childcare system.
During a press briefing, Sir Martyn Oliver confirmed that Ofsted is considering whether it can adopt a process similar to schools: notifying settings of an inspection on Monday, conducting inspections on Tuesday and Wednesday, and publishing reports by Friday. Consultation on these plans is scheduled for December.
These reforms follow feedback from The Big Listen, Ofsted’s largest-ever consultation, which ran from March 8 to May 31. Out of 16,033 respondents, 51% addressed early years issues, including over 700 responses from employees in registered childcare settings.
In his press briefing, Sir Martyn emphasised that early years are his “number one priority,” marking the beginning of a new chapter for Ofsted. He stated, “I promised the Big Listen would lead to real change. This is the beginning of a new chapter for Ofsted as we reset our priorities, refine our practices, and rebuild our relationships.
We aim to retain the confidence of the children, parents, and carers we serve and regain the respect of the dedicated professionals we work with.”
He acknowledged that the tragic death of Ruth Perry was a catalyst for these changes but noted that the need for reform has been evident for years. “We recognise the growing challenges facing education and social care, especially since the pandemic.
We don’t want to add to this pressure. Many of the changes we are introducing are aimed at reducing the pressure on those we inspect.
We will always strive for higher standards for children, particularly the most vulnerable. We share that goal with thousands of dedicated people working in education and social care. We are determined to win back their trust and work together in the interests of children and learners.”
