This course is designed to ensure that school leaders in alternative provision are well prepared for their next Ofsted inspection.
This session equips leaders in alternative provision (AP) settings with the tools and insights to excel in Ofsted inspections. Designed to align with the Education Inspection Framework (EIF), the session focuses on strategic planning, evidence-based practices, and compliance with national policies. Participants will master the art of articulating their setting’s impact, showcasing key outcomes such as student progress, behaviour improvements, and reintegration success. The session delves into Ofsted’s specific criteria for AP, covering curriculum intent, implementation, and impact, while providing actionable strategies to enhance attendance and safeguard compliance. Tailored guidance on essential documentation and effective stakeholder engagement ensures leaders leave with confidence to demonstrate their provision’s excellence.
Central to the programme are practical tools and activities to prepare staff for inspector interviews and interactive workshops on crafting compelling case studies. Participants will explore best practices for adapting curriculum to diverse needs and leveraging Inspection Data Summary Reports (IDSRs) to highlight achievements. By the end of the session, attendees will know how to enhance their provision’s readiness for inspection. This session is essential for leaders aiming to align with Ofsted priorities, ensuring every aspect of their AP reflects national standards and delivers measurable success.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
Headteachers, deputy headteachers, assistant headteachers, principals, deputy principals, assistant principals, heads of school, deputy heads of school, senior leaders, inclusion managers, pastoral leads, SENCOs, curriculum leads, behaviour managers, learning mentors, subject leads, teaching staff, learning support assistants, safeguarding officers, and any other staff involved in alternative provision.
KEY LEARNING OBJECTIVES
This masterclass/session will enable you to:
Understand Ofsted Expectations: Grasp key EIF criteria and priorities for AP, including curriculum, behaviour, and attendance.
Communicate AP Strengths: Effectively showcase your setting’s unique impact to inspectors and stakeholders.
Demonstrate Evidence of Impact: Present robust evidence of outcomes, including progress, behaviour, and reintegration success.
Ensure Policy Compliance: Align safeguarding, behaviour, and attendance practices with national standards.
Prepare Staff and Students: Build confidence through mock inspections and preparation exercises.
Strengthen Documentation: Develop effective policies and records to meet inspection requirements.
FACILITATOR
Steve Smith has over 30 years’ experience in education. He is currently an Alternative Provision & Inspection Associate with JMC Education and serving Ofsted inspector. Previously he was Director of Education and Deputy CEO for a multi-academy trust and, prior to this, was one of Her Majesty’s Inspectors. He has inspected alternative provisions and worked closely with a pupil referral unit, supporting the school to move from an Ofsted judgement of Inadequate to Good last academic year. Steve has also been a headteacher and senior leader in different schools.
