What Ofsted Are Really Testing

In inspection readiness work, safeguarding evidence is increasingly focused on:

● Staff confidence in recognising signs of harm

● Clear referral pathways

● DSL capacity and supervision

● Attendance and exploitation links

● Governor challenge and oversight

● Consistency of safeguarding language across staff

It is no longer enough for staff to “have completed training.” Inspectors are probing

understanding.

Common Gaps I See in Schools

● Staff unable to articulate local safeguarding risks

● Governors unclear on their monitoring role

● Safeguarding training that hasn’t been refreshed beyond annual slides

● Limited discussion of emerging online harms

● DSL workload not strategically reviewed

These are solvable issues — but they require proactive leadership.

Safeguarding Training Available

✔ Whole-school KCSIE updates

✔ DSL refresher and supervision sessions

✔ Governor safeguarding briefings

✔ SLT strategic safeguarding planning

✔ Online safety and emerging risk workshops

✔ Pre-Ofsted safeguarding readiness reviews

Training is tailored to your setting — primary, secondary, or college.

�� Ready to Review Your Safeguarding Approach?

If you are planning your annual safeguarding update or preparing for inspection, now is the time

to secure your training date.

�� Book a free 20-minute Discovery Call to discuss your school’s safeguarding priorities an

upcoming INSET availability.