In addition to Cole’s coaching profile, he has been actively involved with Ofsted inspection and review work for over 10 years (Primary, Special, Secondary, and Early Years). He holds a postgraduate qualification in school inspection awarded by Middlesex University, and he maintains up-to-date Ofsted training and inspection work. This includes the latest changes to the inspection methodology due to start in Autumn 2025. His approach is not a ‘mocksted’ hoop jumping methodology, but more an approach to upskilling leaders in self-evaluation, moderating school self-evaluation, and providing support and challenge, utlising the latest Ofsted inspection handbooks, including making best use of the new Ofsted School Toolkits.

Cole provides ongoing school improvement support to both mainstream and special school/college settings, and we will provide references for recent support to any setting on request. Cole also has access to associates with a strong school improvement background, with credible success in leading schools to successful Ofsted outcomes. We are also delighted to work in close partnership with Inclusive Learning North and their excellent CPD, SEND Forums, and bespoke training and support services. A large part of this work is coaching Head teachers and other leaders, including SENCOs, Department Leads, and Subject Leaders.

In partnership with Inclusive Learning North, Cole has developed a positive approach to SEND Provision Reviews that is centred on the pupils’ experience of provision, and starts with clarifying the quality of SEND provision in the classrooms. Other approaches are often driven by data and do not necessarily get under the skin of the experience of the pupils, thereby missing the link with the principles of co-production and shared planning as outlined in the SEND Code of Practice.

For further details and an initial free consultation about any aspect of our work with school improvement and / or SEND review, book a session with Cole today.