Case Studies

Join Adam Sproston, Senior His Majesty’s Inspector for SEND & AP, Inclusive Education Team, Ofsted, for an important update on developments in inspection practice. This session will consider how Ofsted’s evolving approach reflects the diverse context of schools, including special, hospital and alternative provision settings. This is a valuable opportunity to hear directly from Ofsted about current priorities and future direction, helping school leaders and staff remain informed and prepared for what lies ahead. Your Head Teacher may also benefit from this session and they are welcome to join.

Dr Shirley Woods-Gallagher, Executive Director of Leadership and Governance at a specialist multi-academy trust in Greater Manchester, will share insights from her role as national lead of the Medicines in Specialist Schools (MiSS) network. Shirley will explore the challenges schools face in ensuring pupils with complex medical needs receive safe, high-quality support, and the policy misunderstandings that have led to inconsistent provision across England. Drawing on the ongoing work of MiSS with the DfE and NHS partners, Shirley will highlight practical ways schools and leaders can advocate for effective commissioning and better partnerships.

Investigations can be time-consuming and complex, but a well-planned and structured approach helps ensure a fair, thorough, and productive process. In this session, Polly O’Malley and Hannah Bingham will guide delegates through the key steps of a productive investigation, with a focus on practical strategies for schools. 

Key discussion points will include:

• Preparation: What you need to have in place before the investigation begins.
• Evidence gathering: Collecting and collating information through examples, meetings, and documentation.
• Process management: Ensuing the correct procedures are followed so the investigation is robust and compliant.
• Final outcome: How to achieve a productive outcome, including possible findings and next steps.