What is the Independent Schools Inspectorate?
The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) is a British not-for-profit company which has been approved by the Secretary of State under Section 162A of the Education Act 2002 for the inspection of schools in England and British Schools Overseas. ISI is also confirmed as an agency which has been approved by the Home Office to carry out Educational Oversight inspections of Private Further Education Colleges and English Language Schools in England and Wales. They have worked closely with the Home Office and other government departments to ensure that Standards for inspection are to relevant and of an appropriate level to meet the needs of students in colleges. The programme is voluntary and fulfils all necessary inspection requirements when applying for (or renewing) a Tier 4 license:
What is a Tier 4 License?
A Tier 4 license is necessary through the Home Office for any private college wishing to sponsor international students under the Points Based System for student visas. In March 2012 it was announced by the Home Secretary that all sponsors must have had a satisfactory inspection or review by one of the designated Educational Oversight Bodies, if they wish to continue to use the Tier 4 license process.
ISI inspection benefits students in colleges as well as international students. It enables colleges to improve the effectiveness and quality of their education system to ensure that all students get a high quality learning experience, and walk away with a qualification of high value to help them on their journey towards their chosen career. Inspection also provides reliable reports on the quality of each institution, enabling students to make the right choice when it comes to their education. The Independent Schools Inspectorate places these reports in the public domain, making the information available to the wider community. This can also be of benefit to the colleges and their staff as institutions can then build on their strengths and identify and resolve any weaknesses.
Inspection Report
Educational Oversight Inspection of Private Further Education Colleges and English Language Schools
Extended Monitoring Visit
