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On 12 June 2026 Ofsted has published the first of its annual updates to the education inspection toolkits and operating guides, with the updated early years inspection materials applying from September 2026.
For nursery settings, this is an important opportunity to review what the updates mean in practice, not only for inspection readiness, but for wider quality, leadership and team development across the setting.
The updated Early Years Inspection Toolkit sets out the areas that will be evaluated and graded during inspection of registered early years and childcare provision.
Importantly, the toolkit also says it can be used to “support self-evaluation and continuous improvement”. This is a helpful reminder that inspection preparation should not be treated as a one-off exercise. It should be part of an ongoing culture of reflection, development and improvement.
The updated toolkit focuses on key areas including safeguarding, inclusion, curriculum and teaching, achievement, behaviour, attitudes and establishing routines, children’s welfare and wellbeing, and leadership and governance
Ofsted’s summary of changes highlights “additional information provided outlining a practitioner’s responsibilities to protect children from harm”. This reinforces the importance of all practitioners understanding their safeguarding role and being confident in how to act when concerns arise.
There is also added emphasis around children’s welfare and wellbeing, particularly in relation to babies’ care needs. The toolkit refers to “safe sleeping arrangements, weaning and safer eating, making this an important area for leaders to review with their teams.
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For nursery settings, the overall message is clear. Strong inspection outcomes are built through strong everyday practice. This includes confident practitioners, effective leadership, ambitious curriculum thinking, inclusive support, robust safeguarding systems and a culture where teams continue to learn and improve.
At WMC Training, we support Early Years settings to develop skilled, confident and knowledgeable teams through specialist childcare apprenticeships. Our role is to help nurseries strengthen practice, grow their people and build the foundations for long-terms quality.
As the updated inspection materials come into use from September 2026, now is a valuable time for nurseries to reflect on current practice, identify areas for development and ensure their teams feel informed, supported and prepared.
Looking to strengthen your Early Years team ahead of the updated inspection materials?
At WMC Training, we support nurseries to develop confident practitioners, future leaders and stronger setting-wide practice through specialist Early Years apprenticeships. Whether you are reviewing your current workforce development plans, supporting existing team members or preparing for future growth, our team is here to help.
Speak to WMC Training today to explore how our Early Years apprenticeships can support your nursery team.
T: 0800 644 6877
E: info@wmctraining.co.uk
