Since a coroner’s ruling that an Ofsted inspection was a contributing factor in the tragic death of headteacher Ruth Perry by suicide, attention on England’s school inspection system has intensified. Ofsted needs to change – and quickly.
Inspectors are now required to undertake training sessions in headteacher wellbeing. But trust from school leaders in Ofsted is at an all-time low.
Far broader reform needs to happen. And the arrival of a new chief inspector, Sir Martyn Oliver, in January 2024, presents an opportunity for a fresh start.
I am in the process of carrying out research with former and current Ofsted inspectors, most of whom are headteachers. I was also a headteacher and an Ofsted inspector. Based on my experience and research, as well as the Department for Education’s own research, here are recommendations for the changes that should take place at Ofsted – both quickly and over the longer term.
