Taking Control 3 : How to Prepare for Ofsted Under the Report Card Framework

In Taking Control 3, Paul Garvey, drawing on eleven years of inspection experience, guides readers through Ofsted inspections with specific advice on the new Report Card Framework, set to come into force in November 2025.

Building on the success of the previous two books, this third volume helps school leaders develop the confidence and know-how to navigate the new areas judged under the new inspection model.

Part One offers a clear and concise overview of the new Report Card Framework, pinpointing the similarities with and key differences from its predecessor, the Education Inspection Framework (EIF). Paul also offers clear guidance on how to prepare for the inspection, with particular emphasis on reducing pressure on staff. Part Two introduces the new inspection commentary, which will replace the outgoing School Self-Evaluation Form (SEF). To assist with this, Paul provides a dialogic tool that will help schools provide the most positive picture of their work possible, detailing how to construct a persuasive narrative addressing each inspection area.

The book also confronts the wider context around school inspections, including contentious debates surrounding Ofsted, the impact of inspections on staff wellbeing, and the tragic death of Ruth Perry. Against this backdrop, he offers a toolkit grounded in experience and compassion to help leaders truly take control and approach their inspections with confidence.

Suitable for head teachers, senior leadership team members, subject leaders, classroom teachers, governors and all stakeholders in mainstream schools in England.