The short notice is part of a new style assessment system. Previously they would have had 10 weeks warning that an inspection was to be carried out.

The move follows a pilot scheme involving a number of schools in the county, including one in Mansfield.

Inspectors said they hope the new process will give them a more accurate picture of school life.

Gail Mclean, local inspector, said: "Teachers can get very stressed when the notification comes through that there is to be an Ofsted inspection.

"So to give very short notice means there is no build up of anxiety and we are really going into a school and seeing them as they are and I think that is very refreshing."