When the archdiocese is notified that a school, which has not undergone denominational inspection within the last five years, is to undergo an Ofsted inspection, a Notice of Deferral will be sent electronically to the head teacher to explain that a school has not undergone a denominational inspection within the usual timeframe, due to the pandemic. This notice should be shared with the lead inspector.
 
The DfE has assured the CES that such a letter will be considered as a legitimate and valid reason for deferral of denominational inspection by Ofsted inspectors.