Independent schools

Estyn carries out inspections of independent schools, including those approved for the placement of pupils with special educational needs (SEN), under Section 163 of the Education Act 2002. Under this Act, the National Assembly for Wales, in its role as the registration authority for independent schools in Wales, may, at any time:

• require the Chief Inspector to inspect any registered school, or to secure its inspection by one or more lead inspectors; or
• arrange for the inspection of any registered school by a body approved by the registration authority.

Her Majesty's Inspectors inspect all independent schools, at least once every six years. Section 163 of the 2002 Act says that the inspection of an independent school shall relate to:

• such of the independent school standards as are, at the time of the inspection, specified by the registration authority in relation to any category of school into which that school falls; or
• if the authority so determines, such of the independent school standards as the authority may specify in relation to that school.

Section 157 of the 2002 Act says that the independent school standards shall relate to:

a.      the quality of education provided;
b.      the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils;
c.      the welfare, health and safety of pupils;
d.      the suitability of proprietors and staff;
e.      the premises and accommodation;
f.       schools' provision of information; and
g.      the manner in which schools handle complaints.

Her Majesty's Inspectors undertake these inspections in accordance with Estyn's Common Inspection Framework for Education and Training in Wales and the Guidance on the Inspection of Independent Schools

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