To prepare for a school inspection under the new ISI framework in the UK, consider the following actions:
- Understand Compliance and Good Practice: Ensure that those responsible for areas of compliance fully understand them and know what constitutes good practice. This includes regularly reviewing and implementing policies, giving detailed attention to the recruitment of staff, and administering the SCR efficiently.
- Review Educational Programmes and Support Systems: Middle leaders should revise their schemes of work, ensuring provisions for the most able pupils, while also supporting those with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). The careers programme must be comprehensive, offering all secondary-aged pupils access to high-quality, impartial future planning advice.
- Emphasise Strategic Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Adopt a strategic approach to CPD to enhance teaching and subject-specific pedagogy. It’s important for teachers to aim high in their teaching while supporting those in need, ensuring all pupils can progress and reach their potential, which greatly affects their wellbeing.
- Prioritise Pupil Wellbeing: The new framework places significant emphasis on the wellbeing of pupils, encompassing physical and mental health, emotional wellbeing, protection from harm and neglect, education, training and recreation, as well as social and economic wellbeing. School leaders, management, and governance should actively promote these aspects in every aspect of school life.
- Incorporate Pupil Voice in School Culture: Actively seek and take into account pupils’ views, wishes, and feelings about their school experience. This involves enabling pupils to communicate, develop positive relationships with staff, and express their views. There should be multiple opportunities for pupils of all ages to participate in education and debates, with their feedback being considered.
- Ensure Up-to-Date and Accessible Policies and Procedures: School leadership, management, and governance teams should familiarise themselves with the new framework and ensure compliance with the Standards and Framework 23. Policies and procedures should be current and easily accessible to staff, pupils, and parents.
