25% of Non Association Independent Schools inspected between 1 September 2018 and 31 August 2019 failed to meet the requirements of the Independent School Standards
Ofsted – Non-association independent schools inspections and outcomes in England, 2020
Supporting Non Association Independent Schools/ Independent Special Schools and Alternative Provision with Ofsted
JMC provided for Ampleforth a very thorough and professional insight into Ofsted graded non association independent school inspections and also a very useful review of our SLT appraisal process. I can thoroughly recommend JMC for their expertise and objectivity.
Robin Dyer, Headmaster, Ampleforth College
There are over 1,100 non-association schools, which fall into two categories: independent special schools (45%) and other independent schools (55%). Ofsted inspects both these types of school and the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspects the schools that are members of an association.
All independent schools must meet all the paragraphs of the Independent School Standards (ISSRs) in order to maintain their registration. The DfE is very clear and unambiguous about this requirement. ISSR compliance is integral to getting a positive inspection outcome.
JMC are specialists in supporting non association independent schools and independent special schools and Alternative provision ( AP) with unrivalled knowledge and experience inspecting against the current Ofsted framework and the ISSRs. We support schools through our in-school training, expert-led compliance & safeguarding webinars, school improvement reviews, audits and mock inspections.
Under the current Ofsted inspection framework, failing to meet the standards almost guarantees an “inadequate” inspection judgment.
Has your independent school or Alternative Provision already been visited by Ofsted & placed into a category such as serious weaknesses or special measures?
We can support you in putting together an action plan / submission to the DfE, as well as carrying out an external review or monitoring visit . Find out more here
JMC Post Ofsted Support Team
Mock Inspections for Non Association Independent Schools
All non-association independent schools will have a ‘standard inspection’ every 3 years. Standard inspections are carried out using the current Ofsted education inspection framework (EIF) and the Independent School Standards. We have a unique understanding of both of these frameworks and their application to schools.
Many schools choose to combine whole school inspection training with an Ofsted mock inspection.
We have a range of packages which our office team would be happy to discuss with you.
JMC Inspection Team
Ofsted Inspection Training
Our inspection teams aim to leave your school or AP site having helped you unpick the current Ofsted inspection framework and given your teaching & administration teams more confidence and reassurance in readiness for when the inspector calls.
We provide easy to access online expert led compliance webinars and updates for school staff and Governors or trustees.
The focus of our courses can be adapted to your needs so please browse the current courses in the list below and let us know your priorities for us to tailor the course to best prepare you for your inspection visit.
Non Association Independent School Inspection Training
Training could focus on areas such as:
- Designing an Ofsted Ready Curriculum Intent for your school
- How to prepare for an Ofsted Deep Dive
- Ofsted Outstanding Implementation of Teaching and learning
- How to achieve Ofsted Outstanding in an Inspection
- Understanding the ISSRs
- Compliance Briefings and mentoring for key staff
- Safeguarding Updates e.g. KCSIE, Peer to Peer Sexual Harassment
I am buzzing with ideas, clear, concise and helpful
Hannah Pomroy, Deputy Head, Ampleforth College
Ofsted Deep Dive Training
We offer Ofsted Deep Dive training for HODs or the SLT as well as subject & phase specific training:
- Preparing for a Deep Dive in Sixth Form
- Preparing for a Deep Dive in English
- Preparing for a Deep Dive in Maths
- Preparing for a Deep Dive in Science
- Preparing for a Deep Dive in Humanities
Compliance Training for Schools
We can offer the following or tailor a bespoke package to meet your school’s needs:
Understanding the ISSRs in Non Association Independent schools
Training for staff who complete the SCR and recruitment processes
- Break down of all pre-employment checks, why and how to carry them out.
- Each session tailored to participants needs.
- Increased ability to respond the complex requirements when completing processes.
- Boosts confidence and understanding.
Safeguarding for School Proprietors, Trustees & Governors
Training on how to carry out internal audits of the SCR
- There can be great benefits to the Safeguarding Governors or Trustee carrying out an internal audit of the SCR. In order for a robust audit to take place, in depth training is offered to support the governor with this process.
- Training on how to carry out robust internal audits of the SCR.
- Demonstrations on how to delve further into processes to ensure statutory requirements are met.
- Appreciation to challenge evidence presented.
- Participants will leave with a greater awareness of the legislation that governs recruitment and the SCR.
School Compliance Briefing sessions
- Annual briefing sessions to non- association schools updating on changes to statutory requirements from the DfE or Home Office, along with elements of best practice gained from schools audits.
Please browse the course details below and get in touch to find out what makes us different and we can begin to create a truly bespoke solution for your school.
Whole school and Lead team INSET on preparing for Ofsted inspection
INSET : Marking & Feedback – Evidencing for Inspection
With the recent changes to the ISI framework it is essential that teachers and leaders get to grips with the new criteria. This course also presents practical ways to mark smarter and how the research shows that improving marking and feedback is the number one way of adding value to pupil progression and attainment.
INSET: Creating a school self-evaluation and SEF for ISI
Why carry out a School Self Evaluation? Many schools use a range of self-evaluation activities to find out what is working, or not, in their schools. Sometimes these are overly…
INSET: Using Data to Improve Standards & Progress
All schools use huge amounts of data to support them in the work they do. Information on pupil attainment and progress is the most complex part of this, but data…
Why international schools go for BSO Accreditation
BSO Accreditation can provide several benefits, both for the schools themselves and for their pupils. In 2022, ISC Research data recorded a total of 13,180 English-Medium international schools around the…
Academy & School Governance Review
JMC can conduct a School Governance Review (virtually via Zoom or in person) The School Governance Review will examine the governance structure, operations and performance across the board. Our Governance…
How to Prepare for an Ofsted Deep Dive
The new Ofsted framework really gives more time for Ofsted inspectors to look at lines of enquiry and subjects in some depth: the now-famous Jacques Cousteau ‘deep dive’. This should…
Safeguarding INSET: Single Central Record (SCR) Compliance
“Expert advice and guidance delivered in a skilled and professional manner ” Mr W Sawyer, Head of Prep School, Yarm School The Single Central Record (SCR) is a key element…
INSET: Preparing your SEND Provision for Ofsted Excellence
“This session presented a broad spectrum of useful and thought-provoking content that has significantly impacted my approach to SEND leadership. It was packed with relevant information aimed at not just…
INSET : Key Staff Preparation for the F23 ISI Inspection Framework
We all found the ISI Inspection Framework day incredibly useful, and we have plenty of actions to undertake! Sophie Toland, Senior Deputy, St. Mary’s Calne Getting to grips with the…
Safeguarding Audit : Academies, Schools & FE Colleges
Very useful practical tips and information. Immediate take home actions. Abingdon School MAT, Academy & School Safeguarding Audits Understanding your duties and responsibilities, and developing and embedding good safeguarding practice,…
Compliance & Safeguarding Training Webinars
Our expert-led webinars are available for schools to book for their leaders and staff as a 1 or 2 hour tailored and interactive Zoom sessions which would be suitable for…
ISI INSET : Regulatory Compliance for Independent Schools
Really useful ideas to move us forward and help with evidence of compliance for inspection! Emma Beer, Deputy Head, Teaching & learning, Lady Barn House School Regulatory Compliance Compliance: There…
Boarding School Audit for Independent Schools
Very useful practical tips and information. Immediate take home actions. Abingdon School Independent Boarding School Audit Educational institutions must meet and observe a wide variety of guidelines and regulations set…
Mock Ofsted 90 minute Educationally Focussed Conversation
Mock Ofsted Pre-Inspection Phone call between the Head & the Lead Inspector The purpose of this service is to support headteachers in preparing for the 90 minute educationally focussed telephone…
ISI INSET: Documentation for ISI Inspections
An ideal combination to deal with the challenge of ISI inspections. Mr J Whybrow, Headmaster, Amesbury School INSET aims: This course is aimed at school leaders in independent schools inspected…
Independent Schools Standards ‘not met’ – Support for Schools
We maintain the strictest levels of confidentially throughout all our consultancy projects with schools & colleges especially concerning those that have not met the Independent School Standards, as judged by…
Mock Inspection for Independent Schools
The whole mock inspection process was professional, well delivered and extremely valuable to us. It validated where we are and provided concrete next steps forward. Myself and the senior team…
F23 ISI Inspection Methodology for 2024
The new ISI Inspection Framework is now in effect, known as Framework 23 (F23), there is a strong emphasis on promoting pupil wellbeing and some significant changes to inspection methodology….
Ofsted INSET : Quality of Education
“A really helpful session covering all areas of the Ofsted framework. The suggested questions are really useful” Laura Creswick , Assistant Head , Teaching & Learning, Nailsea School Is your…
Covid Compliance: Is your MAT , Academy or School Covid Compliant?
As schools across the UK open for all students for the new school year, teaching professionals need guidance on how best to support and protect children and young people. Will…
INSET: Boarding Compliance – National Minimum Standards
This expert-led NMS webinar is available for UK schools and Accredited BSO schools to book for their boarding leaders and staff as a 1 or 2 hour interactive Zoom session….
Ofsted INSET: Outstanding Implementation of T&L
“Lots of new ideas to try out and great discussions ” #alwayslearning Highcliffe School Learning & Teaching Steering Group ( via Twitter) Will your school achieve or maintain Outstanding in…
Opinion: The ISI Inspection Myth Buster!
What is involved in an ISI Inspection ? There are many changes to the inspection framework from September 2023. The most significant is that ISI will NOT give an overall…
Inspection INSET: Single Central Register (SCR) for the Bewildered
“Expert advice and guidance delivered in a skilled and professional manner ” Mr W Sawyer, Head of Prep School, Yarm School This is an introductory course aimed at senior leaders…
Middle leaders INSET: Meaningful Lesson Observations
Strategies for Lesson observations, feedback and coaching to improve teaching and student progress Making Lesson Observations Beneficial Teacher appraisal and capability place effective and accurate observations of teaching and learning…
INSET: Governing Body Training for ISI Inspection
If you are a Proprietor or part of the Governing body of an Independent School in England you will have responsibilities to ensure that your school is adhering to the…
Preparing for F23 ISI Inspections March 2024 Conference
** This event has now taken place contact us to book any of these training sessions in your school ** F23 ISI Inspection Conference : Friday 1st March 2024 ,…
Ofsted Training : The Ofsted Ready School
“Inspiring and knowledgeable” Claire Vickery, Head of DT, Buckler’s Mead Academy Ofsted has moved away from headline data to look instead at how schools are achieving these results, and whether…
INSET: Ofsted Personal Development – building resilience, confidence & independence
What are inspectors looking for in Ofsted personal development? The current Ofsted inspection framework now places a much greater emphasis on pupils personal development and how the school and its…
INSET: Developing a Knowledge Rich Curriculum in Science
“Really engaging tutor who clearly knew his stuff” Sadia Mirza, HOD, Dr Challoners High School • Do you know what the changes that Ofsted are proposing?• How articulate are you…
Ofsted INSET: Preparing Subject Leaders for a Deep Dive
“Really useful for what a deep dive means and what to say to Ofsted” Justin Jones, HOD English, KLB School The Ofsted Ready Department: Preparing for a Deep Dive The…
INSET : Improving Pupil Progress & Attainment at KS3 & KS4
‘very informative’ Sarah Williams, Principal, Immanuel School A practical guide on high impact teaching strategies for improving pupil progress in KS3 & KS4 students Ofsted has regularly condemned the quality…
INSET : Preparing for a Literacy & Reading Deep Dive
“Really useful for what a deep dive means and what to say to Ofsted” Justin Jones, Head of English, KLB School Preparing for a Literacy or Reading Deep Dive The…
Ofsted INSET : Preparing for a Humanities Deep Dive
“Outstanding – extremely helpful & has built my confidence” Miranda Rawlinson, Head of History, Pate’s Grammar School The Ofsted Ready Humanities Department: Preparing for a Deep Dive The current Ofsted…
INSET : Consistently Great Teaching & Learning for ISI
Dispelling misconceptions, clarifying the criteria and sharing the theory and research behind the ISI approach. This course sets out what ISI defined excellent teaching looks like and how it can be identified and strengthened throughout the school.
SLT INSET: Enabling Collective Teacher Efficacy (CTE)
When everyone in a school believes that together they can make a difference, the impact on student attainment can be almost quadrupled Rachel Eells, 2011 An Effect size greater than…
Inspection INSET: ISSR Compliance for Governors
An Outstanding Session on ISSR Compliance Jacqueline Jenkins, Chair of the Advisory Board and School Inspector, Merton Court School Are you expecting an inspection from ISI or Ofsted? Both these…
Ofsted Special Measures Support for Schools
We maintain the strictest levels of confidentially throughout all our consultancy projects with schools & colleges especially concerning those judged as Ofsted inadequate or in Special Measures. Testimonials or references…
Post 16 INSET: 6th Form Ofsted Deep Dives
“Thank you, you made everything seem less scary” Richard Stubbs, Head of Maths, Abbey Park School The Ofsted Ready 6th Form: Preparing for a Deep Dive Are you deep-diving into…
INSET: Apprenticeship & Adult Skills Deep Dives
The Ofsted Ready Apprenticeship Programme: Preparing for a Deep Dive In April 2021 Ofsted became responsible for the inspection of apprenticeship provision at all levels. This was recommended in the Review…
INSET : Metacognitive Feedback to Improve Pupil Progress
Thanks for a fantastic INSET on Metacognition – Really looking forward to using the strategies in our lessons in the next few weeks The Marist School Sports Department ( via…
INSET: Achieving Excellence in Pupil Personal Development
Thank you very much for a very informative and useful session Katherine Beith, Director of Studies, Alleyn’s Junior School How would you rate your pupil’s personal development? How do you…
INSET: Safe & Fully Compliant Boarding Schools
• Are Boarding schools fully compliant ?• How do you know?• Where is your evidence and is it easily accessible?• Will you satisfy the SCCIF (Maintained Schools) or are confident…
Ofsted INSET : Deep Dive Marking & Feedback
“Has really helped me confirm how I need to address the marking policy” Katherine Hyland, Assistant Head, St Anne’s Catholic School for Girls Ofsted 2020 : Greater focus on teacher…
F23 Conference: The New ISI Inspection Framework 2023
“The changes proposed represent an evolution of how we currently inspect schools. They build on the strengths of our current framework and consider the significant changes across education and wider society over…
Ofsted INSET : Preparing for an English Deep Dive
“Really useful for what a deep dive means and what to say to Ofsted” Justin Jones, Head of English, KLB School The Ofsted Ready English Department: Preparing for a Deep…
BSO INSET : Exemplary Practice in BSO Education Quality
This will really get us thinking about the BSO Inspection and effective classroom practice William Shuttleworth, Director of Teaching & Learning, The Banda, IAPS Prep School, Nairobi, Kenya New BSO…
INSET : New Standards for Accredited BSO Schools
Thank you very much it has been such a useful day, I have so many ideas to take away from the day! Lynne Reynolds, Head of Social Science , Bosworth…
INSET: ISI Lesson Observations, Learning walks and the ISSRs
Extremely valuable – thank you ! Jane Bond , Senior Deputy Head (Pastoral and Operational), Rokeby School Strategies for ISI Lesson observation, feedback and coaching to improve teaching and pupil progress…
Mock Ofsted Inspections for Schools, MATs & Academies
During the mock Ofsted, JMC quickly assessed what our primary needs were and responded immediately. We feel much better equipped for the task ahead. Judy Packham, Director, Springboard Education Mock…
