Critics Slam Ofsted’s New Inspection Framework as Outdated and Risky

Plans by Ofsted to revamp its school inspection system have drawn sharp criticism from education professionals. Headteachers, union leaders, and even figures within the Department for Education argue that the proposed changes are unclear, overly simplistic, and out of step with forthcoming reforms for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

One of the key concerns is that the updated framework—set to be introduced in November—could unintentionally lead to fewer schools admitting pupils with SEND, due to a lack of clarity around how inclusion will be assessed.

The changes include cutting down the number of categories used during inspections and modifying how grades are described. Critics warn that, rather than driving improvement, the overhaul risks undermining schools' efforts to support diverse learners and may create confusion across the sector.