Post-primary inspectors conduct Subject Inspections in post primary schools in curricular areas in which they have specialist knowledge and experience. Subjects are evaluated under the headings of whole-school provision and support, planning and preparation, teaching and learning, and assessment and achievement.

WSE WHOLE SCHOOL EVALUATION

During the evaluation the inspection team takes particular account of the school’s own review and development work, and inspectors are also concerned to acknowledge and affirm good practice and achievement. During school and classroom visits the inspectors observe teaching and learning, interact with pupils, engage in discussion with teachers, and examine planning documents. Information is gathered from a range of sources within a school to ensure that judgements made by the inspectors are valid, reliable, and consistent. The inspectors meet boards of management and officers of the parents’ association or parents’ council, where such a body has been established in line with the Education Act (1998).