What do I need to do to be recognised under this scheme?
A British school overseas must have an inspection report which shows that their performance against all the standards is at least satisfactory. This reflects the standards required for continuing registration as a school in England. Schools meeting the standards will have their inspection reports published on the Department's website and will be allocated a unique reference number on the national school reference system, Edubase. .
How do I choose an approved inspectorate?
Information on six inspectorates is available on our website. You will be able to choose an inspectorate that is appropriate for your school.
What will inspections cover?
They will cover quality of the curriculum; quality of teaching and learning; the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils; their welfare, health and safety; the suitability of the proprietor and staff; the school’s premises and accommodation (including boarding); and the school's complaints procedures. An essential part of the inspection is considering the extent to which the British character of the school is evident in its ethos, curriculum, teaching, care for pupils and pupils’ achievements. Schools will be inspected against the criteria which are given in the Standards that inspectorates should meet section.
How much will the inspections cost?
Schools will need to meet the costs determined by the approved inspectorate and these will vary from place to place and from country to country. The DfE has no role in fee-setting.
When will these arrangements begin?
Inspectorates can start inspecting as soon as they have been approved. Information on the six organisations approved to inspect schools overseas can be found on the ‘Approved inspectorates’ page.
How long will the inspection report be valid for?
An inspection is a snapshot the particular day of inspection took place. Inspections will take place every three years.
What happens if we do not like the report? Do we still have to publish?
Yes, the inspectorate will publish the report and it will remain on the inspectorate’s website for three years.
