In Successful Early Years Ofsted Inspections by Julian Grenier, its refreshing to see a focus on pedagogy practice and whole-team approach, starting with the children as a priority. Julian reinforces the point that settings and schools should focus on quality, examining what they do and how this has an impact on childrens current and long-term learning and development. Julian has reflected on research, and provides case studies and helpful, easy-to-use, self-reflective documents, providing a 360-degree approach to Ofsted inspections. Indeed, as Julian believes: Thriving Children, Confident Staff are the essential ingredients of an outstanding setting or school. -- Laura Henry This book provides navigational tools which help leaders and managers of early childhood practice, working in a range of settings , to find their way through the complexities of the work they do, and to deepen their sense of fulfilment in working with the children, families and staff as well as the challenges they deal with daily.
The information presented has great clarity and is very accessible to read. There is enjoyable provocation towards thought and reflection, with practical guidance to help leaders and managers into discussion, debate and professional dialogue with staff and families.
Whilst acknowledging its importance, it sets Ofsted in a contextualised framework such that the tail does not wag the dog, and it shows the pitfalls of responding to every fashion, whim or headline. The case studies provide invaluable help in developing and sustaining quality of practice, so that children are given of the best in this short but important phase of their lives. This book will guide, support and help the reader to be strong through their journey. -- Tina Bruce Early Years expert Julian Grenier argues that its time to do whats right for children and families, and build long-lasting and effective provision which is not simply focused on Ofsted results but which is always aspirational. Completely up to date with Ofsteds new Common Inspection Framework and avoiding a tick-box approach to preparation, Julian focuses on the importance of developing your provision and your team up to and beyond inspection day.
It is accompanied by easy-to-use time-saving pro formas and self-reflective documents that can be downloaded online for free - these are valuable documents which help to focus attention on key areas. A practical, down-to-earth book that will help embed good practice. -- Sarah Brew The author is highly respected throughout the sector for this work, and the book is completely up-to-date with the latest Common Inspection Framework. One of the strengths of the book is that it avoids a tick-box approach to passing inspections, a trap that would be easy to fall into. Instead, the author guides you through processes of improvement, such as building staff skills and morale, and handily details the inspection framework. -- Neil Henty
