Does Ofsted rating really mean anything?

[BelleDameSansTurkey]

I'm new at this and would really value your opinions please.

My DD will not be starting school until Sept 2011 but I am already thinking about where she will attend. The local primary school for which I am in priority catchment area has an Ofsted rating of "Outstanding" and I want to better understand if this really means anything.

What do you think?

[OooohWhatAFuss]

An OFSTED result of outstanding will mean that the school has excellent provision in lots of areas. Results are likely to be high, however everything else that OFSTED look for can depend on the time of inspection... I have worked in schools which have received reports of good with elements of outstanding and satisfactory with elements of good. Both times most of the staff agreed that OFSTED look for different things to parents and teachers. So although a good OFSTED report can be a good sign, do not let it be the prime reason for choosing a school. In fact, read the report online and decide whether the things that the inspectors looked for and judged the school on and things you as a parent are interested in. Only you know your child and the environment they need to thrive.

[Bramshott]

If you go to the Ofsted site you will be able to read the whole report.

[BelleDameSansTurkey]

Thank you. I'll do that. Just find this whole thing a bit scary! Not helped by not being local to area and not knowing reputations etc of schools.

[OooohWhatAFuss]

Maybe you could join some toddler groups in the area and find out from parents what their views are? Good luck