The framework for inspecting education in non-association independent schools

08 Apr 2013 Ofsted

Ref: 090036

This document was updated in April 2013.

The framework for inspecting education in non-association independent schools in England gives the statutory basis for inspection and summarises the main features of school inspections carried out under section 162A of the Education Act 2002, as inserted by schedule 8 of the Education Act 2005. It sets out how the general principles and processes of inspection are applied to non-association independent schools in England. This framework should be read alongside The evaluation schedule for inspecting non-association independent schools and the guidance Conducting inspections of non-association independent schools.

This framework covers the inspection of provision for pupils aged three to five years in the Early Years Foundation Stage, taking account of the Statutory framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage. It does not cover the inspection of registered provision for the care of children from birth to age three, which is inspected under section 49(2) of the Childcare Act 2006.

This framework should be read alongside The framework for inspecting boarding and residential provision in schools; Conducting inspections of boarding and residential provision in schools and The evaluation schedule for inspecting boarding and residential provision in schools.

This new framework has been published on 16 January 2013 but inspections will not commence until 4 February 2013, to allow time for schools to get used to the requirements of the new Education (Independent School Standards) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2012.