UPDATE – Please visit our website for the latest school website Ofsted checklist.

It’s been no secret that for many years Ofsted have been having a peak at school websites prior to inspection or as part of their risk assessments. But the heat has been turned up and schools have been telling us that Ofsted are really taking a good look at school websites at present:

A couple of weeks ago, Ofsted came visiting and used the website as a source of information gathering ahead of their visit.  They commented to us that it was very easy to use and navigate through – so thank you.

In fact not only are there new statutory requirements for school websites, but Ofsted are now openly advising that with the introduction of no notice inspections school websites are being assessed in advance of any visit.

Earlier this year, Sir Michael Wilshal (HMCI) wrote to all schools to say:

As you know, schools are required to provide key information to parents and others on the school’s website, including details of curriculum provision. Inspectors will use the website as a starting point when considering provision in the school.

Sir Michael also said in a speech last year that no notice inspections:

will support the good Head who thinks carefully about how to prepare for an inspection by ensuring the website is up-to-date with information on school evaluation, development planning, the school timetable, etc.

Okay I confess, we love school websites so are totally biased, but I hope you’ll agree that your school website is an absolutely essential resource.

Ideally your school website will not just help Ofsted and satisfy your statutory requirements, but will also:

• Instantly show what’s unique and special about your school
• Look good
• Be easy to navigate
• Be easy to update
• Contain all the useful information which parents find useful such as term dates, newsletters, lunch menus, letters, admissions policy etc etc
• And much more..

You won’t be surprised to hear that we can help with all of this. In fact, we’d love to – it’s what we do.

And, if you’ve just broken out in a cold sweat after reading this, don’t panic! We can provide you with an Emergency Website in a day which will allow you to cover your statutory requirements while we work on a beautiful new website for the school.