Judgements Without the Judgement

Making Sense of the New Five-Point Scale

Now that the new EIF is live, the old comfort blanket of a single overall judgement has disappeared. Instead, schools receive a profile across multiple evaluation areas, each graded from Exceptional to Urgent Improvement. It creates a fairer picture but demands much clearer evidence.

Schools must now explain how they know where each area sits on the scale — and show that staff understanding aligns with leadership narrative. SkillsBridge supports this shift by connecting CPD, confidence trends, and reflective logs directly to the EIF categories. It becomes easier to show not just what’s been done, but how staff are thinking and applying their training.

Five practical tips to prepare for new-style judgements

Start each area with one ‘proof point’

Identify a single piece of evidence that shows progress — then build from there.

Use a simple RAG reflection with staff

Ask where they feel strong, steady, or uncertain within their role under the EIF.

Keep a running commentary

Short monthly notes from leaders become powerful narrative for inspections.

Check for alignment across teams

Leaders, teachers, and TAs should be able to describe your strengths in similar terms.

Connect CPD logs to evaluation areas

Staff reflections should point directly to Inclusion, Teaching, Behaviour, etc.

If you’re thinking about where your school sits on the new five-point scale, our Smart Steps Guide to the New EIF  might be a helpful starting point. Or, if a conversation would be easier, you’re welcome to book a short CPD strategy call with our team to explore what this looks like for your context.

Book a CPD Strategy Consultation