Ofsted Inspection Readiness

Is your service prepared for its next Ofsted inspection? This focused and highly practical session is designed to give leaders and practitioners the clarity, tools, and confidence they need to approach inspection with assurance. Led by Rachel Holden, former Senior HMI at Ofsted, the course offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from someone who has led inspections across a range of children’s services. With a unique insider’s perspective, Rachel will share what inspectors really look for, and how your service can evidence high-quality practice and compliance.

Why It Matters
Ofsted inspections can be a source of pressure. but they can also be an opportunity to showcase your service at its best. This session supports providers to move from anxiety to action, with step-by-step guidance on preparing for inspection day, aligning with the SCCIF(s), and demonstrating impact in every aspect of service delivery.

Course Highlights
– Key themes and expectations in current Ofsted inspections
– What “good” looks like: evidence, outcomes, and the voice of the child
– Common inspection pitfalls and how to avoid them
– How to prepare staff, documents, and the environment
– Practical strategies for managers and frontline teams to work together on readiness

Meet Your Trainer: Rachel Holden

Rachel is a highly experienced social care professional with over 25 years in the sector, spanning frontline practice, senior leadership, and national regulation. Most recently, she led the rollout of Ofsted’s national registration and inspection framework for Supported Accommodation, playing a pivotal role in shaping this new regulatory landscape.

As a former Senior Her Majesty’s Inspector (HMI) at Ofsted, Rachel was responsible for quality assuring ILACS and SEND inspections and overseeing regulatory practice across children’s services. Her earlier roles include Regulatory Manager, HMI for Social Care, and senior operational leadership in early help, family support, and services for missing children.

Rachel’s training is grounded in deep sector knowledge, a passion for improving outcomes for children and young people, and a commitment to helping providers deliver high-quality, accountable care.

📍 Limited spaces available! Register now to secure your spot!