Ofsted Phone Call Preparation Pack

Please note, you can get this resource as part of a larger pack that covers a wide range of Ofsted preparation topics: Ofsted Inspection Preparation Pack

Updated for September 2024, this is a comprehensive guidance pack with accompanying templates to help you navigate what the Ofsted phone call will entail and ensure your team is prepared for an upcoming inspection. From the pre-inspection call to the moment the inspectors arrive (and everything in between!), this pack will provide you with hints and tips as to what might be useful for you to do, say and have at hand as that phone rings. 

Throughout the pack, we’ll explain concepts, guide your thinking and provide scaffolds if you need them so you can focus on adapting everything to the needs of your pupils and staff, allowing you to be confident and well-prepared for when that call comes through.

When you make your purchase, you'll receive a ZIP file containing the whole pack, including:

• A 16-page PDF in full colour containing all the guidance and information you need on how the Ofsted phone call process works.
• A low-colour, print-friendly version of the same pdf.
• 6 fully editable and easy-to-use templates that can be adapted for your setting. These include:

1. Example Ofsted Phone Call Questions with over 30 potential questions to discuss
2. Ofsted Phone Call Crib Sheet
3. Notification List - to have at hand when Ofsted do call so you can quickly inform all necessary parties.
4. Ofsted Inspection Responsibilities List - use to delegate tasks to your SLT so everyone knows what they're responsibilities are before, during and after the call
5. Pre-Inspection Documentation Checklist 
6. Ofsted Folder Checklist

Headteachers, deputy headteachers, assistant headteachers and members of the senior leadership team wishing to develop their understanding of what the pre-inspection phone call with Ofsted involves and their role in supporting the process to run smoothly.

Ofsted is spoken about at great length, but we often don’t know what to expect until we are in the moment. This pack helps to break away from the myths and rumours and focuses on what will really take place, allowing you to prepare for an Ofsted inspection at your own pace.

Key questions answered: 

• How can I prepare for the Ofsted phone call?
• What documents do I need to have to-hand for the Ofsted phone call?
• What can I expect when Ofsted first call?
• What should I do following the first administrative Ofsted phone call?
• What can I expect during the call with the Ofsted lead inspector?
• What questions will Ofsted ask when they call?
• When is the right time to inform staff and pupils about an Ofsted inspection?
• How can I keep the team calm and motivated for Ofsted?

See our Ofsted-focused resources for further help and support.