How ASDAN supports inclusive education under Ofsted’s new inclusion framework

A new era for inclusion in education

Starting in November 2025, Ofsted will introduce a distinct graded area for inclusion in its inspection framework. This change aims to assess how schools and further education (FE) providers support disadvantaged learners, those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and students known to or previously known to social care. In FE settings, the framework will also evaluate equitable outcomes for apprentices, care leavers, and high-needs learners.

ASDAN has long been committed to promoting inclusive education. Our qualifications and resources are designed to support providers in meeting these new Ofsted criteria, ensuring that all learners have the opportunity to succeed.

Understanding Ofsted’s new inclusion criteria

The updated Ofsted framework focuses on five key areas:

Identification and removal of barriers to learning: assessing how effectively schools identify and address obstacles to learning for all students.

Support for disadvantaged pupils: evaluating strategies in place to support pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Support for pupils with SEND: determining how well schools cater to the needs of students with SEND.

Inclusive practices embedded across the provider’s work: looking at how inclusive practices are integrated into the school's culture and operations.

Equitable outcomes in FE: assessing whether FE providers ensure fair outcomes for apprentices, care leavers, and high-needs learners.

How ASDAN supports these criteria

ASDAN's curriculum and assessment model aligns directly with Ofsted’s inclusion criteria, offering both delivery and robust evidence for providers.

Identification and removal of barriers to learning

ASDAN offers: Personal Effectiveness Qualifications (PEQ) and Short Courses provide flexible, portfolio-based assessments that recognise progress beyond traditional exams.

Evidence: learner portfolios and case studies track individual journeys, mapping ASDAN’s six skills against personal learning plans.

Support for disadvantaged pupils

ASDAN offers: curriculum embeds cultural capital, real-world skills, and community projects.

Evidence: tracking of Pupil Premium learner outcomes and documentation of employer/community engagement in portfolios.

Support for pupils with SEND

ASDAN offers: Entry Level qualifications and SEND-specific programmes with clear progression pathways.

Evidence: progress logs with personalised targets and learner reflections captured through reflective activities.

Inclusive practices embedded across the provider’s work

ASDAN offers: whole-school adoption of the six-skill framework and professional development via our new digital learning platform, Equitas Learning.

Evidence: curriculum maps integrating ASDAN’s six skills and staff continuing professional development (CPD) logs evidencing training.

Equitable outcomes in FE

ASDAN offer: Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) and PEQ aligned with employability and executive function; partnerships with employers.

Evidence: Destination data tracked through portfolios and testimonials from employers/apprenticeship providers.

ASDAN’s support tools for providers

To assist schools and FE providers in preparing for the new Ofsted framework, ASDAN offers:

Inspection readiness toolkit: maps Ofsted’s inclusion criteria to ASDAN programmes and qualifications, featuring exemplar evidence templates.

Digital portfolio dashboards (via Equitas Learning): provides real-time data on disadvantaged/SEND learner progress.

CPD offer: trains leaders and teachers in embedding inclusive practice through ASDAN qualifications.

Case study library: showcases best-practice examples ready for inspection.

Why choose ASDAN?

ASDAN is a leading education charity and awarding organisation that has been at the forefront of inclusive education for over 30 years. Our qualifications are designed to:

Support a wide range of learners, including those with SEND and from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Provide meaningful and personalised learning experiences.

Offer flexible assessment methods that recognise progress beyond traditional exams.

Equip learners with the skills and confidence needed for adult life.

Become an ASDAN member

By becoming a member of ASDAN, you gain access to a wealth of resources and support to enhance your provision:

Access to programmes and qualifications: deliver a wide range of ASDAN programmes and qualifications tailored to your learners' needs.

Professional development: benefit from CPD opportunities to enhance your staff's skills and knowledge.

Support and guidance: receive expert advice and support from our team to help you implement and deliver ASDAN programmes effectively.

Join a community of like-minded educators committed to providing inclusive and high-quality education. Together, we can ensure that every learner has the opportunity to succeed.

Ready to support inclusive education and meet Ofsted’s new inclusion criteria? Become an ASDAN member today and access the tools and resources you need to succeed. Express your interest and an ASDAN expert will be in touch.