Ofsted proposals anger schools

22 May 08
Ofsted's proposals to overhaul the school inspection regime have met a storm of criticism from schools and teachers' leaders.

23 May 2008

Ofsted's proposals to overhaul the school inspection regime have met a storm of criticism from schools and teachers' leaders.

A consultation launched by the education and children's care inspectorate on May 19 suggested more frequent monitoring visits for 'satisfactory' and 'inadequate' schools, but longer intervals for those rated 'good' or 'outstanding'. The feasibility of 'no notice' inspections is also to be explored.

Chief inspector Christine Gilbert said Ofsted had a duty to encourage the services it inspects to improve and be user-focused. 'Ofsted has therefore reviewed its arrangements for the inspection of schools… We now want to hear the views of parents, children, teaching professionals and other stakeholders on those proposals.'

But head teachers poured cold water on the idea. John Dunford, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: 'More frequent inspections for some schools graded “satisfactory” is not the right way forward. It is the equivalent of weighing the pig more often without attempting to fatten it. What is needed is a clearer link between the inspectors' recommendations and the support given to the school to address the recommended improvements.'

Teaching unions were also dismissive of many of the consultation paper's proposals. Christine Blower, acting general secretary of the National Union of Teachers, said there was nothing in the document that would make the inspection regime 'fit for purpose'.

'Despite [Ofsted's] proposals it will remain more punitive than supportive and continue to contribute to good teachers deciding to leave teaching,' she said.

'I can see no virtue in no-notice inspections. Schools will feel that an inspection visit is the equivalent of Russian roulette.'

The consultation paper also suggested Ofsted should take more account of parents' views in deciding when schools need to be inspected. Ofsted will also report explicitly on whether schools provide good value for money. The consultation runs until August 11.

 

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