Policy Update: Revised inspection framework for early education settings to launch in Wales

A revised joint inspection framework for settings funded to provide early education in Wales will come into effect from September 2026, following updates by Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) and Estyn.

The new framework reduces the number of inspection themes from six to three, with the aim of making inspection reports clearer and easier for providers, parents and carers to understand.

Alongside the revised themes, inspection reports will place greater emphasis on demonstrating how practice influences children’s play, learning, development and wellbeing.

Although the reporting framework has been updated, the inspection process itself will remain largely unchanged. Inspectors will continue to observe practice, speak with staff and consider children’s experiences during inspections.

CIW and Estyn say the revised framework has been informed by feedback from across the sector and is intended to provide a clearer structure while maintaining a familiar inspection experience for providers.

The updated framework will be introduced through a phased rollout beginning in September 2026.

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