- Inspectors must be mindful of the impact of inspections on the workload of leaders and staff in schools. Inspectors must be sensitive to this at all stages of the inspection. The work of inspectors should not unduly disrupt the usual day-to-day running of the school.
Inspectors will act with professionalism and sensitivity at all times in line with the inspector code of conduct. If the reporting inspector becomes aware of staff undergoing exceptional stress during an inspection they should call a member of the duty team for advice.
If a member of school staff is undergoing exceptional stress during an inspection they should let the reporting inspector know as quickly as possible. The reporting inspector will take advice from a senior member of ISI staff about the situation. If staff do not feel able to speak to the reporting inspector, they should telephone ISI on 0207 600 0100, explain that their school is currently being inspected and they are concerned for the headteacher's/their own wellbeing and ask to speak to a senior member of staff directly. The senior member of staff at ISI will listen carefully. Having discussed with the DfE, if possible, ISI will advise on the most appropriate way forward. If possible, school staff should let someone at the school know about their concern, and the proprietor/chair of governors.
- Inspectors will not expect or request leaders or staff to produce documentation specifically for inspection, prior to, or during onsite inspection. Inspectors will review the information that leaders and staff use in the school's chosen format. Paragraph 81 of this document lists the information that schools are requested to make available to inspectors at the start of the onsite inspection.
- Inspectors will not expect school staff to collate samples of books or pupils' work in advance of inspection. Inspectors will view pupils' work with them in whatever form it is held (including digitally). Inspectors will view pupils' work with pupils and with members of staff where appropriate. Inspectors will not ask schools to make copies of work that is held digitally. Inspectors may request that a member of staff is available to help navigate a school's electronic systems, for example to review samples of pupils' work.
- Inspectors may request to see and/or discuss specific examples of files or records in order to evaluate typical day-to-day practice at the school. Inspectors will evaluate how the examples demonstrate the positive impact for pupils of decisions leaders have made in relevant areas. Inspectors will make clear to leaders that they should not prepare or have prepared written case studies specifically for the inspection. Any such preparation does not align with the principle of manageability of inspection and is therefore unlikely to be seen by inspectors as typical of the school's provision.
- School leaders may suggest suitable times for inspection discussions, for example, with staff, the proprietor(s) / those responsible for governance or pupils. Inspectors will endeavour to accommodate these suggestions to minimise disruption to the school day.