Local Area SEND Inspection - possible outcomes
All local areas will receive a full inspection at least once during a 5-year period. The frequency and type of inspection activity in any individual local area will be based on previous inspection outcomes and any relevant additional information. This includes regional intelligence and information that the local area partnership shares during engagement meetings.
Here in South Gloucestershire, an inspection took place in July 2025, the full report will be published shortly.
There are 3 possible full inspection outcomes, leading to different subsequent inspection activity:
Inspection Outcome:
The local area partnership’s SEND arrangements typically lead to positive experiences and outcomes for children and young people with SEND. The local area partnership is taking action where improvements are needed.
Subsequent meetings and inspection activities:
Full inspection usually within 5 years
Inspection Outcome:
The local area partnership’s arrangements lead to inconsistent experiences and outcomes for children and young people with SEND. The local area partnership must work jointly to make improvements.
Subsequent meetings and inspection activities:
Full inspection usually within 3 years
Inspection Outcome:
There are widespread and/or systemic failings leading to significant concerns about the experiences and outcomes of children and young people with SEND, which the local area partnership must address urgently.
Subsequent meetings and inspection activities:
Submission of priority action plan (area SEND)
Monitoring inspection, usually 18 months from the date when the local area partnership receives its final full inspection report
Full inspection, usually within 3 years
The information on possible outcomes begins on page 10
Keep up to date with our local area SEND inspection here
September 2025