Parents to Get More Insight with New Report Card System

Starting in September 2025, Ofsted will introduce a new “report card” system offering more detailed insights into school performance

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on The BBC

Choosing the right school for a child is a pivotal decision for parents, often based on a combination of school visits, recommendations from others and inspection reports like those provided by Ofsted. Starting in September 2025, a new “report card” system will replace the traditional one-word Ofsted judgments, offering more detailed insights. A pilot version of this initiative is currently being tested in Camden, north London.

Trialling the New Style Report Cards

The redesigned school report card is designed for smartphones and tablets, enabling parents to search for schools within a specific area. Through the platform, users can delve into detailed information about each school, including descriptive text, images and data, providing a comprehensive view of what each school offers. The idea for the new style card originated from parents who wanted a report that would provide a genuine sense of the school, highlighting aspects such as the importance of sports or the approach to discipline.

The detailed, multifaceted approach to reporting could help parents better understand what each school offers and whether it aligns with their child’s needs and interests. The new report cards could also offer greater transparency and provide more meaningful comparisons between schools, especially in areas beyond academics.

Concerns Over Coded Ratings

A public consultation on the design of Ofsted’s new report cards is set to begin early next year. Leaked details indicate that the reports may include coded ratings in 10 key areas, a proposal that has sparked controversy among education unions. One key issue is that education unions fear the new system could oversimplify the complexities of school performance by reducing it to a series of coded ratings.

As the consultation on Ofsted’s new report cards unfolds, it’s clear that the shift towards more detailed and transparent reporting has the potential to empower parents and improve school accountability. The outcome of this consultation will be crucial in shaping the future of school assessments and ensuring that the new system supports both parents and educators in fostering a well-rounded education for all students.