Events

A workshop for independent schools on what to expect under Ofsted’s current inspection framework, including the September 2026 updates. This practical online workshop is designed for independent school leaders who want to understand what to expect during a standard Ofsted inspection under the current inspection framework. Whether your school is new to the process, has not yet been inspected under the current framework, or would benefit from a refresher, the session will unpack how inspections are working in practice, what inspectors may look at, and how leaders can prepare effectively. The workshop will include practical guidance, key points to consider before inspection, and time for questions.

Independent School Compliance & Inspection 101 Leading a non-association independent school brings a distinct set of regulatory responsibilities. Compliance with the Independent School Standards is fundamental to maintaining registration and achieving successful inspection outcomes. This practical introductory workshop is designed for: • Headteachers new to non-association independent schools • Experienced mainstream leaders moving into the independent sector • Proprietors, senior leaders and those establishing a new independent school The workshop will cover: • The Independent School Standards and why they matter • The relationship between the DfE, Ofsted, registration and compliance • The different types of independent school inspection • How non-compliance can affect inspection outcomes and school sustainability • The consequences of persistent failure to meet the standards • Practical steps leaders can take to remain compliant and inspection-ready By the end of the session, participants will have a clearer understanding of the regulatory framework for independent schools and how to build a more proactive approach to compliance and inspection readiness.

NAISA will launch at a national conference in April, bringing together school leaders, sector professionals, and partners. The conference will include: - Keynote contributions - Opportunities for discussion and networking - A workshop about the new Ofsted inspection framework - A session led by the Senior HMI for independent schools and a Specialist Adviser HMI - Time to explore the future direction of NAISA

Join fellow Designated Safeguarding Leads from across the independent school sector for a practical, participative forum focused on the safeguarding issues that matter most to schools right now. The NAISA DSL Forum is designed to be more than a briefing session. While we will share key information and updates, the real value of the forum comes from bringing DSLs together to discuss current challenges, exchange practice, ask questions and learn from the experience of colleagues working in similar settings. At this forum, we will explore the latest Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) requirements and consider what they mean in practice for independent schools. We will look beyond whether staff have simply read part one of KCSIE and consider the bigger question: how do DSLs know that staff genuinely understand their safeguarding responsibilities and would be able to demonstrate that understanding if questioned? We will also consider the increasingly important relationship between safeguarding and attendance, including how DSLs can work proactively with colleagues to identify concerns, improve attendance and ensure that safeguarding remains everyone's responsibility. A substantial part of the session will be given over to open discussion. Delegates will have the opportunity to raise emerging safeguarding themes, areas of uncertainty and challenges they are encountering in their own settings, while hearing how other schools are approaching similar issues. The forum will also help shape future NAISA DSL Forums. We want these sessions to respond directly to the needs of DSLs, so delegates will be invited to suggest future topics, areas of practice they would like to explore and potential speakers or expertise that would be valuable to the group. Who is this forum for? This forum is particularly suitable for: • Designated Safeguarding Leads • Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads • Headteachers and senior leaders with safeguarding responsibilities • Safeguarding professionals working within independent schools The forum is intended to be collaborative, supportive and practical. Delegates are encouraged to contribute their experience and questions, while ensuring that no identifiable information about individual pupils or safeguarding cases is shared. Whether you are looking for clarification on current requirements, reassurance about your own practice, fresh ideas from colleagues or simply the opportunity to connect with other DSLs who understand the realities of the role, the NAISA DSL Forum provides a valuable space for professional discussion and shared learning.

This online event dives into the top insurance risks that independent schools might be missing as we head into 2026 and it will be delivered by one of our trusted partners - Rob Wardle from Osprey Insurance Brokers. They are a specialist insurance partner to independent schools, SEND settings and alternative provision providers across the UK. Let them guide you on what to review before renewal. They will break down what you need to watch out for to keep your school secure.

The NAISA Leaders’ Forum is an opportunity for leaders of non-association independent schools to come together, connect with colleagues and discuss the issues currently affecting the sector. This first forum will provide space for leaders to share their experiences, raise questions and help shape the focus of future NAISA forums. We want these sessions to be driven by the needs and priorities of the sector, so participants will be invited to identify the topics, challenges and areas of practice they would most value exploring in future meetings. The forum will also include an update on changes to the Ofsted inspection framework due to be implemented from September 2026, with an opportunity to consider some of the implications for independent schools. In particular, we will explore the importance of leadership and governance, including the role of proprietors and governors in contributing to effective oversight and accountability. There will also be an opportunity to meet NAISA’s Trusted Partners, hear about the specialist support available to schools, and find out more about upcoming opportunities for the sector. The forum is designed to be informal, practical and discussion-led, creating a space where leaders can speak openly, learn from one another and build connections with colleagues facing similar challenges. Suitable for: Headteachers, Principals, Proprietors, Governors and senior leaders working in non-association independent schools.