Ofsted raises expectations for adult learners Monday, July 27, 2009 - 11:22

Ofsted's updated framework - Common inspection framework for further education and skills 2009 - was launched on Thursday 23 July 2009.

Carol Taylor, Director of Operations at NIACE, said:

"The new Common Inspection Framework (CIF) for Further Education introduces some developments that already exist in the schools sector - listening to learners, shorter notice of inspection and a concentration of efforts where they will have the greatest impact - which have already been generally welcomed by schools."

"NIACE is encouraged by the increased emphasis on what learners have to say and on equality and diversity issues. This should ensure that inspection reports are not weighted too heavily in favour of attainment and pass rates and include other measures of achievements for those further away from the formal education system and those whose progress can only be measured in very small steps."

NIACE is encouraged by the increased emphasis on what learners have to say and on equality and diversity issues.

Carol Taylor

"NIACE is also encouraged by an increased emphasis on a wider range of outcomes for learners - employment being one of them - outcomes which encourage healthier, competent and capable citizens."

"There is an interesting question for FE providers about how the new Framework for Excellence, with its emphasis on data based performance indicators, will sit alongside a more qualitative inspection framework."