Inspections have officially restarted - and the inspection process has begun.
Under the new inspection framework, settings can now expect two notification calls, not one.
These calls are a meaningful part of the inspection process and set the tone for everything that follows.
Understanding what these calls are for - and how to approach them confidently - can reduce anxiety and help you feel in control from the very start.
Previously, there was one notification call, which many leaders experienced as a brief conversation with the inspector, focused on dates, timings, and logistics.
Under the new framework, inspectors are now using two calls to:
· Understand your setting’s context
· Clarify leadership roles and responsibilities · Explain how the inspection will be structured
· Begin professional dialogue earlier in the process
· Identify any reasonable adjustments that may be needed
In short: the call now sets the tone for inspection day.
The notification call is not designed to catch you out.
However, it does give inspectors an early sense of:
· How well leaders
· How confidently safeguarding, inclusion, and curriculum can be explained
· Whether reflection and impact are embedded in daily work
· How leadership sets the tone for the setting
This is why preparation now looks very different.
If you were asked to explain your practice and provision using the new inspection toolkit terminology and self-assessments, what would you say?
During the notification calls, inspectors are not looking for rehearsed scripts or policy wording.
They are listening for:
· Clarity – can you explain your practice simply and confidently?
· Understanding – do you know why you do what you do?
· Impact – can you describe the difference your approach makes for children?
· Typical practice – does what you say match what usually happens day to day?
The focus has shifted away from “having the right answer” and towards professional reflection and understanding.
The good news is that preparing for the notification call does not mean memorising responses or rewriting paperwork. Instead, preparation should focus on three key areas.
Be ready to talk confidently about:
· Your setting
· Your children and families
· Current strengths and challenges
· How your provision meets children’s needs
Context matters. Inspectors want to understand your setting — not a generic one.
The new inspection framework relies on clear evaluation language.
Being familiar with terms such as:
· Expected
· Strong
· Exceptional
can help you describe your practice in a way that aligns with how inspectors are making judgements — without over-complicating your answers.
A simple reflection question to practise is: “What difference does this make for children?” If you can confidently explain how your approach supports children’s safety, inclusion, learning, and wellbeing, you are already doing what inspectors are asking for.
Perhaps the most important shift in the new framework is this:
Inspections are now built around professional conversations. Your tone, confidence, and clarity matter just as much as your documentation. Leaders who understand the process -and feel supported - are far more likely to experience a calm, constructive inspection.
At EYFS Training Hub, our Inspection Preparation Bundle has been designed specifically for busy leaders navigating these changes.
Our training focuses on:
· Understanding the new inspection framework
· Preparing for notification calls step by step
· Using inspection language with confidence
· Reflective practice - not scripts
· Reducing anxiety through clarity and preparation
It’s practical, focused, and built around real inspection conversations.
The aim isn’t to “perform” — it’s to feel confident talking about the excellent work you already do.
The inspection may begin with a phone call - but
confidence begins with understanding.
By knowing what to expect, how the process has changed, and what inspectors are really listening for, you can approach the notification call -and the inspection itself -with calm, clarity, and confidence.
