For families relocating to a new area, finding the right state school can be a major consideration when choosing where to live. For years, Ofsted ratings provided a convenient shortcut: look for schools rated “Outstanding” or “Good” and search for homes nearby.

But that approach no longer tells the whole story.

Ofsted no longer gives state-funded schools an overall effectiveness grade following a graded inspection. Instead, inspections assess individual areas such as the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision where relevant.

In our view, this change is fantastic.  It provides a fairer, broader assessment of a school’s strengths.  However, the reports are also more nuanced and less open to easy interpretation than the older system of reporting.

For relocating families, the question is no longer simply, “Is this school Outstanding?” but, “What is this school actually like, and is it right for my child?”

The inspection date also matters. Historic overall ratings remain visible, but they reflect the inspection framework in place at the time and may not provide a complete picture of the school today.   Many housing websites that provide schools mapping are often showing information that is technically past its sell-by-date.

What to look for alongside OFSTED?

When comparing schools, read the latest report carefully, consider areas identified for improvement, and look beyond Ofsted. Performance data, admissions arrangements, catchment areas, transport, school policies and the experiences of current parents can all provide valuable insight.

School visits still the gold standard

Where possible, visiting a school in person is invaluable. A visit gives families the opportunity to experience the atmosphere, see how pupils interact with staff, look at the facilities and ask questions that may not be answered in an Ofsted report. For families relocating from another area, it can also help turn a school that looks good on paper into a place they can genuinely picture their child attending.

Ultimately, Ofsted remains an important part of the decision, but it should be viewed as one piece of a much bigger picture when choosing both a school and a new community.