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Safe Child Guide
Ofsted Online Safety Inspection Preparation Guide
Free resource from safechildguide.com
A three-page guide for DSLs and senior leaders preparing for Ofsted inspection. Covers: what Ofsted's inspection framework says about online safety, the evidence base inspectors typically look for (policies, staff training records, curriculum delivery, pupil voice), common areas of weakness identified in inspection reports, and a self-assessment checklist for schools to use before inspection. Written to reflect the current Ofsted Education Inspection Framework and associated handbooks.
Suitable for: schools, teachers
Age range:
Ofsted Online Safety Inspection Preparation
Use this checklist to prepare your evidence base before an Ofsted inspection. Inspectors will assess online safety through interviews, records, and observed practice.
Evidence Folder Contents
Current Online Safety Policy (dated, governor-approved)
Acceptable Use Policies for pupils, staff, and parents
Online safety curriculum overview — what is taught, when, and by whom
Staff training records (dates, content, attendance)
Filtering and monitoring system details (provider, settings, review date)
Log of online safety incidents and outcomes
Governor minutes referencing online safety discussions
Staff Knowledge Check
Ensure all staff can confidently answer these questions:
Who is the DSL and how do I report a concern?
What do I do if a pupil shows me something concerning on a device?
What are our rules around staff using personal devices and social media?
How do I report a suspected online grooming or CSAM concern?
Pupil Voice Prompts
Inspectors may speak directly to pupils. Prepare pupils to discuss:
What you have learned about staying safe online
What you would do if someone online made you feel uncomfortable
Who you would tell at school if something online worried you
What the school rules are about using phones and devices
Governor Questions to Expect
How do you know that online safety is being taught effectively?
When did you last review the filtering and monitoring provision?
How do you hold the DSL to account for online safety?
What training have governors themselves received on online safety?
Quick Wins Before Inspection
Ensure all policies are dated, signed, and governor-approved within the past 12 months
Check every staff member has read and signed the AUP this academic year
Run a quick online safety quiz or reminder with all staff at the next briefing
Ensure your filtering/monitoring provider can supply a summary report of activity if requested
Confirm DSL training is current (renewed within the past 2 years)
Printed from safechildguide.com — Free child safety resources
Last reviewed: 2026-04-15