Union calls for halt to graded Ofsted inspections over health concerns
Summary
England’s largest school leaders’ union, the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT), has asked for a pause on graded Ofsted school inspections. They say the inspections are harming school leaders’ mental health and are too stressful. Ofsted says it will continue grading schools but has worked with unions and parents to develop the new system.Key Facts
- Ofsted introduced a new report card system for school inspections in England in November, replacing simple overall grades with more detailed assessments.
- The change followed the death of head teacher Ruth Perry, whose inquest found an Ofsted inspection contributed to her suicide.
- The NAHT claims the new inspection system causes serious stress and health problems for school leaders.
- Testimonies from head teachers describe feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and facing increased pressure from inspections.
- NAHT tried a legal challenge against the new system but it was rejected by the High Court.
- Schools in Wales and Northern Ireland use narrative reports without grades to assess schools.
- The NAHT wants inspections to pause for a full review, suggesting lessons from these other countries.
- Education Secretary Lucy Powell says she takes head teacher wellbeing seriously and will work with them to improve the inspection process.
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