• Understand the implications of the updated Ofsted Education Inspection Framework (EIF) for sixth form provision in schools.
• Strengthen leadership capacity to deliver high-quality post-16 education aligned with local needs and national expectations.
• Equip leaders to prepare for the distinct sixth form judgement in school inspections.
• Explore governance responsibilities and strategic oversight in sixth form settings.

Who is this course for?

Assistant Heads, current or aspirational school Sixth Form leaders in schools, Sixth Form Colleges & FE Colleges.

Course Outline

1. Ambitious Curriculum Intent for Post 16 Schools

• Align curriculum intent with local labour market intelligence, regional growth priorities, and student progression pathways.
• Ensure curriculum ambition reflects inclusivity, SEND provision, and diversity of destinations (HE, apprenticeships, employment).
• Embed personal development and employability skills into curriculum planning.

2. Curriculum Implementation in a Diverse Sixth form Environment

• Address the challenges and opportunities of delivering a broad and balanced post-16 offer, including academic and vocational pathways.
• Develop assessment strategies that support progress tracking and intervention.
• Promote independent learning, enrichment, and non-qualification activities that support Ofsted’s broader outcomes focus.

3. Monitoring & Evaluating Impact: Inspection Readiness

Updated Focus:

• Use self-assessment and stakeholder feedback to inform quality improvement.
• Prepare for narrative inspection reports with clear evidence of impact.
• Understand how sixth form outcomes contribute to the whole-school judgement.

4. Leadership & Governance in Sixth Form Provision

Updated Focus:

• Clarify the role of school governors in sixth form oversight.
• Explore the shift from operational management to strategic leadership.
• Develop leadership skills to articulate vision, ethos, and impact under the new framework.

Presenter Profile

Malcolm Drakes is a leadership consultant with JMC Education who also works with the National Institute of Teaching and Ambition Institute supporting school leadership and delivering National Professional Qualifications.

He has been a Headteacher, Executive Headteacher and National Leader of Education, typically working with schools in disadvantaged communities.

Cost: £150 per delegate; £50 each for subsequent delegates from same school

Booking Form

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