Following Ofsted’s consultation on its new inspection framework in early 2025, and its limited rollout later last year, the new framework has been fully in place for school inspections across England since January 2026.

Throughout this period, NAHT has consistently challenged the framework and highlighted the risks it poses to school leaders. Working both publicly and behind the scenes, the union has secured several important improvements – but significant concerns remain.

In this episode, NAHT general secretary Paul Whiteman discusses the impact of the new inspection framework so far, some of the challenges school leaders are experiencing, and NAHT’s ongoing work with Ofsted and the government to secure a fairer, safer system.

Find out more about NAHT’s campaign on inspection reform at www.naht.org.uk/Ofsted.

For more insightful and engaging discussions on key issues in education and school leadership, explore NAHT’s online magazine, Leadership Focus.

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