A SEND and AP inspection is a joint evaluation by Ofsted and the CQC to assess how well local areas work to improve the experiences and outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and those in Alternative Provision (AP).
The inspection runs over the course of three weeks (Tuesday 25 November 2025, to Friday 12 December 2025) and will include a mix of reviewing evidence, conversations with children, families and professionals, and onsite visits and meetings.
As part of the process, inspectors asked services to circulate two surveys which capture the views and experiences of parents and carers, and children and young people who have used services relating to SEND or AP.
Get involved – information about both surveys
Ofsted and CQC are visiting Walsall as part of an inspection. They will be looking at arrangements for children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
They would like to hear your views about the support you or your child/children receives. You can provide your views by completing an online survey:
Parents and carers: https://ofsted.smartsurvey.co.uk/p/AreaSend/10389071
Children and young people: https://ofsted.smartsurvey.co.uk/p/AreaSend/10389071
Your views will help inspectors understand yours or your child’s experience of the SEND arrangements within your area. The survey will close at 9am on 02 December 2025.
The survey is voluntary and does not ask for your name. The responses will complement the evidence collected by inspectors during the inspection.
For more information about how CQC and Ofsted collect and use data during inspections please see their individual privacy policies: CQC privacy statement; Ofsted privacy policy
Further information about the inspection framework can be found on the gov.uk website: Area SEND: framework and handbook - GOV.
