Shorter notice for survey inspections
From January 2008, we will be shortening the notice period for subject and aspect survey inspections to one week for secondary schools. One week is usually enough notice as most subjects will be taught somewhere in the school each day. Primary schools notice will remain at two weeks. This takes into account that some subjects may not be taught each week and allows for flexibility.
The change is in response to views expressed by headteachers of some of the schools involved in last year's survey.
Subject survey inspections enable us to gather in-depth evidence on a topic - such as citizenship or religious education - from a sample of schools. We then comment on the strengths and weaknesses of provision, as well as issues that need to be addressed by schools or at a local or national level. We also gather examples of effectiveness in schools' work that can be shared more widely.
Aspect surveys vary from short 'rapid response' inspections on issues such as exclusions and community cohesion, to longer term surveys such as inspection of the National Strategies and workforce reform.
A subject survey visit will normally take place over two days in a secondary school, and one day in a primary school. Aspect survey visits will be much the same, but may vary according to need. For example, some aspect surveys may involve two inspectors for one day to allow for reflection and discussion with a specialist colleague and secures a good evidence base.
Inspectors will observe lessons, discuss provision with staff and pupils, and look at pupils' work and relevant documents. Although inspectors do not ask for a subject-level self-evaluation, the school's own evaluation of its provision is a good starting point for the inspection.
At the end of the visit, inspectors will provide feedback on strengths and weaknesses, and confirm these in a letter to the school which is usually published on Ofsted's website.
Read more about subject and aspect surveys and reports on our website.
