Self-Assessment Report (SAR) – Latest version with key strengths and areas for improvement. Quality Improvement Plan (QIP) – Clear actions, timelines, and impact measures. Board/Governance Meeting Minutes – Evidence of oversight, challenge, and accountability. Strategic Plan & Vision Statement – Aligning mission, priorities, and outcomes. Organisational Structure Chart – Clear leadership, management, and staffing structure.
2. Curriculum & Teaching
Curriculum Intent Statement – Rationale for course design and delivery. Curriculum Plans & Schemes of Work – Mapping learning outcomes, progression, and assessment. Lesson Observations & Learning Walk Records – Evidence of teaching quality monitoring. Assessment & Feedback Policies – How student progress is measured and feedback is provided. Industry Links & Employer Engagement Records – Evidence of employer involvement in curriculum design. Independent Learning & Study Support Evidence – Additional support for learners.
3. Quality of Education & Student Outcomes
Learner Progress & Attainment Data – Retention, achievement, and pass rates. Destination & Progression Data – Employment, apprenticeships, and further study statistics. Learning Walk & Work Scrutiny Records – Monitoring student work quality. Student Voice & Feedback Reports – Satisfaction surveys and focus group outcomes. Tutor Performance & Development Plans – CPD records, training logs, and lesson evaluations. English & Maths Strategy – Support for students who need to improve their skills.
4. Safeguarding & Wellbeing
Safeguarding & Prevent Policy – Up-to-date policies in line with statutory guidance. Single Central Record (SCR) – Up-to-date staff DBS checks and safer recruitment records. Safeguarding Training Records – Evidence of staff training and updates. Referrals & Case Management Logs – Handling of safeguarding concerns (anonymised). Pastoral Support & Wellbeing Services – Mental health and additional learner support.
5. Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI)
EDI Policy & Action Plan – Evidence of promotion of inclusivity. EDI Data & Analysis – Performance gaps and interventions. Reasonable Adjustments & SEND Support Evidence – Records of additional learning support. EDI Training Records – Staff and student engagement with inclusion initiatives.
Apprenticeship Off-the-Job Training Evidence – 20% off-the-job compliance records. Employer & Training Agreements – Signed agreements outlining roles/responsibilities. End-Point Assessment (EPA) Preparation Records – Apprentice readiness and success rates. Employer Feedback & Satisfaction Reports – Input on apprenticeship quality. Workplace Reviews & Learning/OTJ Logs – Employer progress tracking and feedback.
7. Behaviour & Attitudes
Behaviour & Disciplinary Policies – Including attendance and engagement expectations. Learner Attendance & Punctuality Data – Monitoring engagement. Exclusions & Disciplinary Records – Trends, interventions, and impact. Learner Support & Pastoral Interventions – Evidence of wellbeing initiatives.
8. Personal Development
Enrichment & Extra-Curricular Activities Records – Supporting learners beyond academics. Careers Advice & Guidance Strategy – Gatsby Benchmark evidence. Work Experience & Placement Records – Employer partnerships and student experiences.
9. Leadership & Management
CPD & Staff Development Strategy – Training records and impact on teaching quality. Workforce Data & Performance Management Reports – Staff retention and appraisal records. Staffing & Recruitment Strategy – Workforce planning and retention initiatives.
10. Regulatory Compliance
ESFA Funding Compliance & Audit Reports – Financial accountability and funding assurance. Health & Safety Policies & Risk Assessments – Including fire safety and first aid. Data Protection & GDPR Compliance – Policies and evidence of compliance. Complaints & Appeals Policy – Handling learner and employer concerns.
Graham McMullan is a trusted expert in Further Education, Skills, and Workforce Development, dedicated to helping training providers, colleges, and businesses deliver high-quality, compliant, and impactful education. With extensive experience in Ofsted, ESFA compliance, quality assurance, and leadership, Graham has played a pivotal role in driving positive change within education and training organisations. A champion of inclusive, high-quality education, Graham’s expertise extends to governance, leadership coaching, and quality improvement, helping organisations and individuals thrive in an ever evolving skills landscape.
