Ofsted said on 28 August 2026 that it had published new guidance and a toolkit for inspecting education, skills training and work in prisons and young offender institutions in England under its renewed education inspection framework. The changes include higher expectations for prison education and skills training, matched to further education standards in the community, and a new inclusion evaluation area focused on the barriers prisoners can face in engaging with education, training and work. Ofsted also cited a strengthened focus on teaching reading and literacy, employability skills that respond to labour market and employer need, and more detailed grading.

The guidance lists five evaluation areas: inclusion; leadership and governance; curriculum, teaching and training; achievement; and participation and development. Each is to receive one of five grades, from exceptional to urgent improvement. Ofsted said particular attention will go to prisoners with special educational needs or disabilities, including needs related to neurodiversity, and those with other support needs. Chief Inspector Sir Martyn Oliver said improved literacy would help prisoners access a wider curriculum and prepare for life after release.

Inspections under the framework were scheduled to begin on 21 September 2026, the release said. They form part of joint inspections led by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Prisons, with Ofsted's findings contributing to the "purposeful activity" section of HMIP reports.