10 May 2002
David Bell, who has replaced Mike Tomlinson as the head of education watchdog Ofsted, told the Commons' education select committee that the current inspection regime was robust.
Critics of school inspections have called for a fundamental overhaul of the system because they believe it places an unnecessary burden on head teachers and their staff.
Teaching unions claim that Ofsted places too much emphasis on exam results and does not take sufficient account of problems faced by schools with disruptive pupils or those with special needs.
But, speaking on May 8, Bell said: 'I think the balance is about right. Under the regime that is due to come into place in 2003, I don't think there is a strong argument that can be made that inspection is burdensome, when schools will face inspection once every four or six years.'
Bell dismissed a switch to a 'drop-in' approach to inspection, saying: 'I don't think it would give us a better picture of the education system.'
The former chief executive of Bedfordshire County Council also questioned calls to bring more teachers into the inspection regime, doubting they would be able to undertake enough inspections to build up the required level of expertise.
But he indicated that there would be changes once he settles into the £115,000-per-year post. 'I won't have any ideological approach to this job – it's about what works. This role is not worthwhile unless you have the freedom to speak out.'
PFmay2002
