12 September 2008
Plans by Ofsted to outsource its early education and childcare work have provoked trade union warnings that inspections could be 'severely compromised'.
Three unions representing staff at the inspectorate have condemned the proposals, which follow concern over a 'divisive new pay structure' and below-inflation pay offer.
Jon Richards,Unison senior national officer for Ofsted, said: 'Early years inspectors working for Ofsted are charged with ensuring that every child gets the best start in life.
'This is a vital job and parents deserve the reassurance of knowing that inspections are done by an independent, reliable and publicly accountable body of staff. This will be severely compromised if inspections are carried out by a private, profit-driven company.'
Neil March, negotiations officer at the Public and Commercial Services union, said outsourcing such a sensitive area would lead to corners being cut and a loss of expertise. 'Ofsted recognises that staff morale is low and should be taking steps to address it by tackling below-inflation pay, rather than appearing to wash their hands of staff by looking to outsource their work.' The FDA senior civil servants' union also opposed the plans, criticising the possible loss of expertise.
A spokeswoman for Ofsted said the option of outsourcing early years work followed 'the very successful and cost-effective arrangements' with the private sector for school inspections.
'These have been carried out in this way for many years,' she said. 'We began consulting staff, and their unions, on our very early thinking, as part of wider plans to restructure Ofsted to become an even more effective inspectorate.' She said the option was being explored to make the most of available resources and run efficient inspection services. 'Although we recognise that uncertainty is difficult for our staff, we have to act in the best interests of children, young people and learners.'
Ofsted believes its new pay structure is 'fair, and in line with market factors'.
PFsep2008
