CYP Now - Inspections Clinic: Mock childcare inspections

Ofsted’s chief may have branded them a ‘waste of money’ but childcare providers and sector bodies tell Jo Stephenson that mock inspections offer vital preparation for when the inspectors do pay a visit.

Moderation meetings give settings an opportunity to reflect on practice before an Ofsted inspection takes place. Picture: Lordn/Adobe Stock

Opinions are divided on the effectiveness of “mock inspections” designed to help settings such as nurseries and pre-schools prepare for the real thing.

Ofsted’s chief inspector Amanda Spielman has previously raised concerns about schools paying large sums to consultants to conduct “mocksteds”, branding them a waste of time and money.

The regulator is clear it does not expect or want schools, nurseries and others to go out of their way to rehearse or prepare for inspections. The focus should be on providing the best quality care day in, day out.

However, leading early years organisations say regular evaluations or reviews of practice – often conducted along the lines of an inspection – can be useful in identifying areas for improvement as well as preparing staff for the experience of being inspected.

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