The word “Ofsted” doesn’t usually spark joy in early years settings. But with the latest proposed changes following the February 2025 consultation, some exciting shifts could help us showcase the incredible work happening in early years.
One of the biggest changes to Ofsted reports? A new “report card” system, designed to break down inspections into clearer, more focused areas, with a brand-new emphasis on inclusion. That means inspectors will be looking even more closely at how well we support all children, particularly those with SEND or additional needs.
So, what exactly is changing, and how can we make sure we’re inspection-ready without losing sight of what really matters – creating brilliant, joyful learning experiences for our little learners?
What will Ofsted be looking at?
The proposed evaluation areas for early years are:
1. Leadership and governance: More than just paperwork!
Ofsted wants to see strong leadership, but that doesn’t just mean policies and paperwork. They’re looking at how we set the tone for our settings, ensuring that:
- Our team feels supported, trained, and ready to provide great care
- We’re constantly reflecting, adapting, and improving our practice
- Inclusion is woven into decision-making, not just an afterthought
Top tip: Show off how you empower your team, whether it’s through regular CPD, team meetings, or just great communication.
2. Achievement: Progress over perfection
Forget data-heavy assessment grids, Ofsted now wants to see real, meaningful progress.
- Are children developing in a way that’s right for them?
- How do we spot and support those who need extra help?
- Are we preparing them for their next stage of learning (without pushing them too hard)?
Top tip: Focus on celebrating individual progress – from first words to new-found confidence, every milestone matters.
3. Curriculum: Making learning stick
Ofsted will look at:
- How well our curriculum supports all areas of development
- How it is delivered in a way that excites and engages young learners
- How language, literacy, and numeracy are woven into everyday play and routines
Top tip: Make sure your curriculum reflects real children, full of hands-on learning, playful discovery, and meaningful experiences.
4. Teaching: More than just circle time
Good teaching in early years is about making learning magical.
- Are practitioners using open-ended questions to spark curiosity?
- Are they responsive to children’s interests and needs?
- Is language development at the heart of everything we do?
Top tip: Ofsted wants to see rich, high-quality interactions, so keep chatting, playing, and extending learning in the moment.
5. Behaviour, attitudes & routines: Happy children, happy setting
Young children are learning how to navigate the world, and Ofsted will be looking at how we:
- Help them feel safe, secure, and valued
- Teach them self-regulation skills – without harsh discipline
- Foster positive relationships and support social-emotional development
Top tip: Show how your daily routines help children feel calm, confident, and in control of their environment.
6. Children’s welfare & well-being: The heart of everything we do
Mental health is a big focus, and Ofsted will ask:
- Are children encouraged to express emotions and build resilience?
- Are physical health, movement, and nutrition embedded in daily life?
- Do staff truly know and respond to individual children’s needs?
Top tip: Show off your nurturing environment – from cosy reading corners to mindful moments and movement breaks.
7. Inclusion: The BIG new focus area
This is the biggest change, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to highlight the work we do to make sure EVERY child thrives. Ofsted will be looking at:
- How we support children with SEND and additional needs
- How do we remove barriers and create equitable learning opportunities?
- How we promote diversity, inclusion, and respect
Top tip: Make inclusion visible, whether it’s through visual supports, flexible approaches, or strong partnerships with families and specialists.
8. Safeguarding: We know this inside and out
Safeguarding is still woven through everything, and Ofsted will want to see:
- That ALL staff know their responsibilities and what to do if they have concerns
- That children’s safety is embedded in daily practice, not just policies
- That families feel confident and supported
Top tip: Make sure safeguarding is second nature to your team, from arrival procedures to ongoing staff awareness.
So, how can we prepare for the new Ofsted Reports?
With the proposals for the new Ofsted reports, we can get ahead by:
- Celebrating what we already do well, making it visible and intentional
- Supporting staff, ensuring everyone feels confident in key areas like curriculum, inclusion, and safeguarding
- Talking to parents. Engaging families is key to a strong, inclusive setting
- Keeping it real. The best practice is what happens every day
By focusing on authentic, high-quality practice, we can embrace these changes with confidence because, at the end of the day, early years practitioners are already doing an incredible job.