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Over the summer the DCSF launched its consultation on its proposals to amend the system of registration and monitoring of independent schools. The proposals include transferring more responsibility to Ofsted, making changes in relation to the standards that all independent schools are required to meet and proposals to change inspection fees levels. Responses are due by 19 October 2007.

Registration, Monitoring and Categorisation of Independent Schools

It is proposed that DCSF’s responsibility for registration and monitoring of independent schools is transferred to Ofsted. This will mean that Ofsted will become the point of contact for all schools in relation to registration. Schools affiliated to either the Independent Schools Council or the Focus Learning Trust will continue to be inspected by the Independent Schools Inspector or the School Inspection Service respectively, both of which are monitored by Ofsted.

It is proposed that the status of ‘approved independent school’ for SEN purposes is removed to allow for a unified inspection regime for independent schools. This reflects the increase in regulation and standards that have come about within the sector since the system of approved schools was introduced in 1996.

From April 2008, it is proposed Ofsted inspections will be carried out on a three year rotation rather than the current six years, and will be carried out using a different inspection model. The new inspection will be shorter and take into account school performance and elements of self-evaluation.

Change to fee structure for Ofsted Inspections

DCSF is proposing to revise the fee arrangements for Ofsted inspections. A table of the revised fees is set out in the DCSF consultation at paras.2.46-2.49: click here to view. Fees will continue to be based on a sliding scale but will become payable on an annual basis.

Small Changes to the Regulation Standards and Processes for Independent Schools

DCSF’s proposals include plans to slightly amend the standards against which all independent schools are measured. This includes introducing a new management standard to try and ensure quality leadership within schools, publishing Ofsted Inspection Reports and clarifying the system so that provision for children under three years old will be regulated solely under Early Years legislation.

The consultation is available on the DCSF website: http://www.dfes.gov.uk/consultations/conDetails.cfm?consultationId=1498.