Independent schools
The process of inspection of independent schools is similar to that for maintained schools: inspectors gather evidence through observation of teaching and learning, and analyse a range of other information to assess how well the school is performing. All schools will be inspected at least once in a six-year period, and they result in a published report.
We do not inspect all independent schools, however. We only inspect those where the head teacher is not a member of an association that is affiliated to the Independent Schools Council (ISC). We inspect independent schools at the request of the DCSF.
The DCSF may also request we to undertake further inspections of a school where a material change is proposed. Material changes are a change:
- in proprietor
- of school address
- in the age range of pupils
- the maximum number of pupils
- the gender of pupils
- to boarding
- in the admission of pupils with special educational needs.
How do I get a copy of the inspection report?
In the first instance, you should contact the school themself. You can of course find the report on our website once it has been published.