Ofsted’s Grading Changes: Impact on Nurseries

How Will Ofsted’s Removal of Single-Word Judgments Affect Nurseries? Key Insights for Early Years Providers

As of 2nd September 2024, Ofsted has officially removed single-word judgments like "Outstanding" or "Inadequate" from inspections of state schools and maintained nursery schools in England. This change marks the first step towards a more comprehensive accountability system, with the introduction of School Report Cards set for September 2025.

But what does this mean for nurseries and early years settings? Let’s break it down.

Quick Overview: What Has Changed?

• Ofsted has removed single-word outcomes for all state schools and maintained nursery schools, effective immediately.

• Schools and maintained nursery schools will now receive ratings across four categories: Quality of Education, Behaviour and Attitudes, Personal Development, and Leadership and Management.

• Private nurseries and independent early years settings will continue to receive single-word judgments for now.

Why Did Ofsted Remove Single-Word Judgments?

• Parent and Teacher Feedback: Research by Ofsted found that fewer than 40% of parents and only 29% of teachers supported the one-word judgement system. The new approach aims to give parents a fuller understanding of how a school or nursery is performing by providing ratings across multiple areas.

• Improving Standards: The government believes that by removing single-word judgments and moving towards more detailed report cards, schools and nurseries will be held accountable across a broader range of measures, ultimately driving higher standards.

What Are "Ofsted School Report Cards"?

• Coming in 2025: From September 2025, School Report Cards will be introduced, offering a more complete picture of a school or nursery’s performance. The exact format is still being developed, but the goal is to make these report cards transparent and easy for parents to understand.

How Will These Changes Impact Nurseries?

• Maintained Nursery Schools: If your nursery is part of a maintained school or academy, these changes are already in effect. Your next Ofsted inspection will no longer include a single-word outcome but will provide ratings across the four key categories.

• Private Nurseries and Independent Early Years Settings: For now, these settings will continue to receive one-word judgments. However, the government has indicated that similar changes may be applied to private nurseries and other early years providers within the next year.

What Should Early Years Providers Do Now?

• Inform Parents: Communicate the changes to parents, reassuring them that your nursery remains committed to providing high-quality care and education. You might also explain how the new system will give them a more detailed understanding of your nursery’s strengths.

• Stay Updated: Keep an eye out for further updates from Ofsted, especially the new Inspection Handbook, which will detail the upcoming rating process.

• Prepare for Future Changes: If you’re a private nursery or early years provider, be aware that these reforms may eventually apply to you. Stay informed about any government announcements over the coming year.