What is Ofsted and how does the new school ratings system work?

What is Ofsted and how does the new school ratings system work?30 April 2026ShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleGetty ImagesThe National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) school leaders' union says Ofsted's new inspection framework is "unfairly penalising" schools in England with higher numbers of pupils who are disadvantaged, or have special educational needs (SEN).Ofsted's new report card system replaced its previous one or two-word judgements in November, a move the government says will help raise standards for children.But critics argue that the new inspection regime continues to put pressure on teachers and school leaders, and that some of the worst aspects of the old system remain. What does Ofsted mean and how are schools rated?Ofsted - the Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills - inspects and reports on anywhere that provides education for young people in England, including schools, colleges, nurseries and childminders.The body also inspects some independent schools in England, while others are assessed by the Independent Schools Inspectorate.Inspections in Wales are carried out by Estyn, in Scotland by Education Scotland, and in Northern Ireland by the Education and Training Inspectorate.How have school inspections changed?Many parents and carers rely on Ofsted ratings to help them choose a school or nursery for their child.Previously, schools or organisations were inspected every four years - or within 30 months, depending on their status - and were given one of four overall grades:1 - outstanding2 - good3 - requires improvement4 - inadequateBut since November 2025, Ofsted inspections no longer give a single overall grade. Instead, the new framework provides several grades for different parts of school life, with narrative summaries providing more details.Areas which are assessed include:curriculum and teachingachievementinclusionleadership and governancepersonal development and wellbeingattendance...