In 2017, Education Scotland introduced a new model of inspection of local authorities. These inspections focused on how well the nine challenge authorities within the Scottish Attainment Challenge are improving learning, raising attainment and closing the poverty-related attainment gap. HM Inspectors carried out the nine inspection visits between December 2017 and December 2018. During each inspection they met with local authority staff, including groups of headteachers, teachers and practitioners from change to early learning and childcare settings, primary, secondary and special schools. They also met with learners, parents, and other stakeholders. In addition, inspection teams observed practice in establishments and reviewed relevant documentation, with a particular focus on attainment outcomes for children and young people. The inspection methodology included the issuing of questionnaires to allow HM Inspectors to gather the views of various stakeholder groups. This summary report presents: (1) Inspection findings; (2) Key features that are evident in those authorities making the greatest progress; and (3) Challenge questions. The findings from these are summarised in Appendix 3. The collaboration of colleagues from the Association of Directors of Education in Scotland and Audit Scotland who worked with HM Inspectors to develop the methodology and deliver the programme is acknowledged.