Jan 06, 2026
Discover how Stubbington Lodge took part in Ofsted’s new Early Years Inspection Framework pilot, what the experience was like, and how it’s helping us prepare for the November 2025 changes.
Celebrating Stubbington Lodge’s Ofsted Pilot Success
We’re thrilled to share that our amazing team at Stubbington Lodge recently took part in Ofsted’s new Early Years Inspection Framework pilot, and they represented both the nursery and The Old Station Nursery brilliantly!
In Ashleigh’s absence, our Deputy Manager Kayleigh led the inspection day with calm confidence and professionalism. The inspector was particularly impressed with her leadership, deep knowledge of the setting, and how effectively the whole team worked together.
What Was the Ofsted Pilot All About?
The pilot inspection was part of Ofsted’s preparation for the new Education Inspection Framework, which officially comes into effect in November 2025. The purpose of the pilot was to test how the new process will run in real nursery settings, including how inspections are structured, led, and graded.
This new framework feels very different from the old one. Instead of using a ‘best fit’ overall grading such as ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’, Ofsted will now look at whether nurseries absolutely meet the standards in each key area. Achieving the new ‘Expected Standard’ will be a strong outcome, equivalent to, or even better than, a ‘Good’ grading under the current system.
Please note that as this was an Ofsted pilot inspection, there will not be a report for this inspection.
A Positive Experience for Everyone
The inspection day itself felt calm, open, and collaborative. Much of the process involved Kayleigh working directly with the inspector – observing practice, discussing what was happening, and reflecting together on how children learn and thrive at Stubbington Lodge.
This approach gave the team the chance to really showcase what makes our nursery special: our caring relationships, the quality of our teaching, and our strong focus on inclusion and children’s well-being.
Learning and Next Steps
Taking part in the pilot has given Stubbington Lodge, and our whole nursery group, invaluable insight into what to expect from the new Ofsted inspection process.
If an area of practice is found to need improvement under the new framework, it simply means the nursery will receive clear, constructive feedback and take focused action to strengthen that area. Ofsted will revisit the nursery – normally within 12 months – to ensure progress is recognised quickly. This approach ensures that all nurseries continue to develop and maintain the highest standards of care and education.
The learning from this pilot has already been shared across all of our nurseries, helping every team prepare and benefit from the experience.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
We’re incredibly proud of Kayleigh and the entire Stubbington Lodge team for their professionalism and enthusiasm throughout this process. Their success reflects our shared commitment to providing the very best for every child in our care.
As the new Ofsted framework approaches, we feel confident, informed, and ready, with the reassurance that our practices already align closely with the standards Ofsted expects.
A huge well done to everyone at Stubbington Lodge Nursery for representing the group so wonderfully and for your continued dedication to delivering exceptional early years education.
To learn more about Ofsted’s new Education Inspection Framework (effective from November 2025), visit the official government website here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/education-inspection-framework/education-inspection-framework-for-use-from-november-2025