How Nurseries Are Preparing for Ofsted’s New Early Years Inspection Framework 2025

The way Ofsted inspects nurseries is changing from November 2025, bringing a more detailed and collaborative approach. Behind the scenes our nursery teams are already preparing. Here’s how we’re getting ready and what it means for families.

Learning from pilot inspections

Recently, some of our nurseries took part in Ofsted’s pilot and mock inspections, which trialled the new framework in real settings.

This hands-on experience gave our teams a first look at how the new inspection process feels, and what Ofsted inspectors are focusing on.

We’re proud that our teams approached these pilots with enthusiasm and professionalism. Even better, all the insights gained are being shared across our nursery group, so that every nursery benefits equally from what we’ve learned. Please note, we will not be receiving a report for the Ofsted pilot and mock inspections.

What the new framework focuses on

Under the new inspection model, Ofsted will look more closely at:

• Safeguarding: how well children are protected and cared for
• Inclusion: how all children, including those with SEND, are supported
• Curriculum and teaching: how children learn and make progress
• Children’s well-being: how happy, confident, and engaged they are.

Instead of one overall grade, each area will receive its own grading, giving parents a more transparent picture of quality.

Nurseries will now be inspected more regularly, typically every 4 years instead of every 6. More frequent inspections – which could be within 12 months if there are areas to strengthen – are part of a fairer, more transparent system designed to keep families better informed about their nursery’s ongoing progress.

Supporting our teams

Further guidance around the new inspection framework has been provided to all of our nurseries, to ensure we continue to meet (and exceed) the new Expected Standard. We continue to support our teams all year round, ensuring they have the training and resources needed to deliver the highest quality of care and education.

Why this matters for parents and children

For families, these changes mean more trust and transparency. You’ll see exactly how your nursery performs in each key area, not just a single headline grade.

For children, it means their daily experiences are at the heart of inspection, how they play, learn, feel, and grow in confidence.

Our commitment moving forward

As the new Ofsted framework takes effect, we’ll continue to share updates, insights, and guidance with our parents and carers.

Our goal is simple: to make sure every child in our care experiences the highest possible standard of early education, every single day.

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