No More Learning Walks

If you are preparing for an Ofsted inspection in 2026, you may have heard a significant rumour circulating through the sector: the learning walk has changed. For years, the “learning walk” was the high-stakes opening ceremony of an inspection. It was that initial 15–20 minutes where a manager would lead an inspector through the setting, attempting to showcase their best practice while simultaneously battling nerves. Under the new Ofsted inspection framework, this traditional on-site walk is no longer the starting point.

Instead, inspections now begin with a planning call.

I have spoken to dozens of nursery owners and managers who have already navigated this new process. While some find it daunting, others have found it to be a more professional, collaborative way to start the inspection. In this guide, I’m going to break down exactly what the Ofsted planning call is, what inspectors are asking, and how you can prepare for it calmly—without panicking or overthinking.

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1. The Death of the Learning Walk (As We Knew It)

The traditional learning walk was often criticised for being a “performance.” Managers felt they had to script their route and practitioners felt “invaded” from the moment the inspector stepped through the door.

In response to the “Big Listen” consultation—a massive exercise where Ofsted gathered feedback from thousands of professionals—the framework was redesigned to reduce pressure and increase transparency. The result? The “Learning Walk” conversation has been moved to a dedicated 30-minute planning call that happens before the inspector arrives on site.

The shift is simple: Inspectors now want to understand your setting’s “headspace” before they see your “floor space.” By the time they arrive at your door, they already want a clear picture of your intent and context.

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2. Logistics: When, Who, and How Long?

The timing of the planning call is critical. Under the 2026 rules, the notification process follows a strict timeline:

• The Notification Call: Usually happens before 10:00 AM on the day before the inspection. This is the short, logistical call where the inspector confirms they are coming.

• The Planning Call: This is the “meaty” conversation. It typically happens later that same day, usually in the afternoon. It is conducted via telephone or video call and generally lasts around 30 minutes.

Who should take the call? Ideally, the registered manager or the individual responsible for the daily leadership of the setting. If you are a childminder, you will handle this alone. If you are a nursery owner who isn’t the manager, ensure your manager is prepared to lead this dialogue. If you feel you need more support with leadership structure before your next inspection, our 6-Month Nursery Business Mentorship focuses heavily on empowering managers to lead these conversations.

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3. The Four Pillars of the Planning Call

During these 30 minutes, the inspector isn’t just checking your internet connection; they are building the “skeleton” of your inspection. Based on real-world feedback from 2026 inspections, the call is structured around four key pillars:

Pillar 1: Context and “Your Story”

The inspector will ask about the unique nature of your setting. This isn’t about stats; it’s about your community.

• What are the specific needs of the families you serve?

• Have there been significant staff changes or building works recently?

• What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced since your last inspection?

Pillar 2: Self-Evaluation (How do you know you’re good?)

Ofsted no longer requires a written SEF (Self-Evaluation Form), but they absolutely require self-evaluation. They will ask:

• What are your current priorities for improvement?

• How do you monitor the quality of teaching in your rooms?

• What is one thing you’ve changed recently that has had a positive impact on the children?

Pillar 3: Curriculum and Inclusion

This is where the “learning walk” intent lives now. You need to articulate your curriculum progression.

• What do you want children to learn, and why?

• How is your curriculum adapted for children with SEND or those from disadvantaged backgrounds? (Note: Inclusion is now a standalone evaluation area in the new report card system).

Pillar 4: Safeguarding Culture

Inspectors aren’t just looking for a policy; they are looking for a culture. They may ask how you ensure staff stay updated on local risks or how you handle low-level concerns.

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4. How the Call Shapes Your Inspection Day

The most important thing to realise is that the planning call targets the inspection.

If, during the call, you mention that you have a high percentage of children with speech and language delays, the inspector will likely spend more time observing communication and language. If you mention you’ve been working on staff wellbeing, they will look for evidence of that in their leadership discussions.

Because this “context-setting” is done over the phone, when the inspector arrives the next day, they move straight into shared observations. There is no more “introductory tour” where you explain your philosophy; you should have already explained it in the call.

To ensure your practitioners are ready for this “straight-to-action” approach, you might want to look at our guide on Expected vs Exceptional Practice, which helps staff understand how to showcase high-level scaffolding from the second the inspector enters the room.

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5. Step-by-Step Preparation Checklist

You cannot “script” the planning call, but you can be prepared. Use this checklist to ensure you’re ready when the phone rings:

1. Review Your Data (Without Over-Documenting): You don’t need spreadsheets, but you do need to know your “numbers.” How many SEND children? How many receive funding?

2. Audit Your Safeguarding: Ensure all DBS checks and vetting records are easily accessible. Many settings use Famly to keep these digital records organized, which makes answering safeguarding questions much faster. (Don’t forget, you can get 25% off Famly through our link).

3. Talk to Your Team: They need to know that the “planning” is happening. Ask them: “If an inspector asks you what our focus is this month, what would you say?” Consistency is key.

4. Print Your Timetable: Have a clear view of what’s happening the next day (trips, forest school, lunch times) so the inspector can plan their observations around your best moments.

5. Reflect on Inclusion: Be ready to talk specifically about your most vulnerable children. What are you doing differently for them?

If you feel your setting needs a “dry run,” booking a Mock Ofsted Registration Visit or a Consultation Call can help you practice articulating your curriculum before the real inspector calls.

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6. Common Worries: “What if I get it wrong?”

The planning call is intended to be a professional dialogue, not an exam.

• “What if I’m busy when they call?” Ofsted will agree a time for the planning call during the initial 10:00 AM notification. You will have a window to prepare.

• “What if I forget to mention something?” You can always bring it up the next day. The planning call “shapes” the inspection, but it doesn’t “close” it.

• “What about childminders?” For childminders, the call is often shorter and more informal, but the themes remain the same: context, curriculum, and safety.

Remember, identifying a gap during the planning call is actually okay. A leader who says, “We realised our outdoor curriculum was weak, so our current priority is X,” shows much more “Exceptional” leadership than one who claims everything is perfect.

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Conclusion: From Panic to Partnership

The shift from the physical “Learning Walk” to the “Planning Call” represents a move toward a more respectful, professional inspection culture. It recognizes that you are the expert in your setting.

The call is your chance to lead the inspector through your “why” before they see your “what.” When you know what’s coming, understand why the call exists, and prepare calmly, the entire inspection feels more focused and far less stressful.

Ready to Elevate Your Inspection Prep?

• Deep Dive into the Framework: Enrol in our Complete Nursery Guide Course for a full module on the 2026 framework.

• Start Your Journey: If you’re just starting out, grab our Free Starter Guide.

• Join the Conversation: Discuss your inspection experiences with over 7,000 owners in our Facebook Group.

• Check Your Ratios: Use the Nursery Ratio Calculator to ensure you’re compliant before the call.

• Streamline Your Systems: Don’t let paperwork trip you up. Use Famly to keep your setting inspection-ready 24/7 (and save 25%!).

The planning call isn’t an obstacle, it’s your first opportunity to showcase your excellence.

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Tags: Ofsted planning call 2026, Nursery inspection prep, Early Years Framework changes, Ofsted learning walk, Nursery management tips, Childcare safeguarding, EYFS curriculum, Nursery self-evaluation, Ofsted report cards, Early years leadership, Special educational needs inclusion, Nursery documentation, Childminder Ofsted prep, Inspection notification call, Professional dialogue Ofsted