Much needed.
More needed.
Two sentences to sum up both the gratitude and the frustration expressed by teachers, parents and governors in light of recently announced Ofsted inspection changes.
Amanda Spielman, Ofsted’s chief inspector said: “Since the sad death of Ruth Perry, there has been considerable debate around Ofsted’s work and I want to reassure people that we are listening to their concerns, and thinking carefully about how we can revise aspects of our work without losing our clear focus on the needs of children and their parents.”
“The reforms announced by…Spielman…are intended to ease the burden felt by school leaders such as…Perry.” GUA
In light of that burden, the changes are meant to in part de-personalise the process – altering the focus on senior staff and instead citing the school when evidencing programme weaknesses. Also, the new measures will permit headteachers to discuss draft reports with peers and faculty prior to formal publication in a bid to relieve what many staff have said amounts to a “burden of secrecy.”
Ofsted also have committed to shortening the re-inspection period for schools found to have safeguarding concerns and to lead a consultation on the current complaints and grievances procedure.
Lastly, Government are increasing the resources provided to schools as part of the inspection process – such as enhanced explanations of safeguarding standards and more funding for the DfE’s mental wellness service.
However, critics contend “changes by Ofsted to the way it inspects schools have been criticised as ‘nowhere near enough’ to reduce the resulting high levels of stress involved, which were linked to the recent death of a popular headteacher.” GUA