What the DfE Expect Schools to Publish

Keeping a school website up to date can feel like just another task on an already long list. But for Ofsted, governors, and parents, your website plays a key role in how your school communicates, demonstrates compliance, and provides reassurance.

This blog outlines the key information schools are expected to have available online, based on guidance from the Department for Education and the areas commonly reviewed by Ofsted.

This isn’t about having the “perfect” website — it’s about clarity, accessibility, and confidence.

Why Your School Website Matters for Ofsted and Compliance

Your website is often:

• The first place parents look for information
• A reference point for governors
• A quick check for inspectors

When information is missing, outdated, or hard to find, it can create unnecessary stress — especially during inspections or periods of change.

Key Information Schools Should Have Clearly Available

Below is a practical overview of the main areas schools should regularly review.

1. Contact & School Information

Schools should ensure that basic contact details are easy to find and clearly displayed, including:

• School name and address
• Telephone number and email address
• Headteacher’s name
• Chair of Governors (or equivalent)

A simple test: Could a new parent find this information in under 10 seconds?

2. Safeguarding & Policies

Safeguarding information should be:

• Clearly labelled
• Easy to access
• Up to date

This typically includes safeguarding and child protection policies, behaviour policies, complaints procedures, and accessibility information. Dates should be visible so it’s clear documents are current.

3. Curriculum Information

Schools are expected to explain:

• What pupils are taught
• How the curriculum is structured
• How reading and phonics are approached
• How SEND provision is supported

This doesn’t need to be overly complex — clear, parent-friendly language is far more effective than lengthy documents.

4. Funding Information

Funding information is a common area where schools fall behind. Websites should clearly show:

• Pupil Premium details and strategy statements
• Sports Premium information (where applicable)
• Relevant documentation for the current and previous years

Clear labelling and logical organisation make this much easier to maintain.

5. Governance Information

Governance details should be transparent and accessible, including:

• Names and roles of governors or trustees
• Attendance records (where required)
• Registers of interests

This information is often reviewed by governors themselves as part of ongoing compliance checks.

6. Accessibility & Ease of Use

Beyond the content itself, accessibility matters. School websites should:

• Work well on mobile devices
• Use clear navigation
• Avoid broken links or outdated pages
• Make key information easy to locate without searching

A Calm Approach to Compliance

It’s important to remember that website compliance isn’t about ticking every box perfectly — it’s about showing that your school:

• Understands its responsibilities
• Reviews information regularly
• Makes information accessible to its community

Small, regular checks are far less stressful than last-minute updates.

Final Thought

A clear, well-maintained website supports parents, staff, governors, and inspectors alike. It helps schools communicate confidently and reduces unnecessary pressure when it matters most.

If you’re unsure where to start, a simple checklist or second pair of eyes can make the process much more manageable.