Reading Ofsted reports is likely to be one of the first things you do when you’re choosing a school for your child.

Regular inspections are an important part of making sure that schools are providing children with a good education.

The reports can be a vital source of information about your child’s school but what actually happens when the inspectors visit?

His Majesty’s Inspectors and Ofsted Inspectors (who in most cases are serving school leaders) carry out the inspections.

Most schools receive notice of their inspection on the morning of the school day before the inspection begins.

However, Ofsted can inspect any school without notice where this is judged to be appropriate.

Inspectors talk to the headteacher, governors, staff and pupils, and consider your views as a parent. They spend most of their time observing a wide range of lessons and looking at the quality of education in the school, and the impact of the curriculum. Inspectors give specific attention to the acquisition of knowledge, understanding and skills in lessons.

They also look at the personal development, behaviour, attitudes and welfare of pupils at the school, the promotion of spiritual, moral, social and cultural development; and how well the school is led and managed.

If you’re a parent or carer, we’ll send you a letter just before an inspection with information on how to share your views.

Ofsted Parent View, is the main source used to gather parents’ views about a school. Inspectors will use the views expressed on Ofsted Parent View when inspecting your child’s school.

Inspectors will make graded judgements on the following:

• Safeguarding
• Achievement
• Personal Development
• Leadership
• Early Years
• Behaviour and Attendance
• Teaching and Learning

Inspectors use the following scale to make all judgements: