Laura Doel, Director of NAHT Cymru said: “NAHT Cymru has campaigned for Estyn inspections to be put on hold following a truly challenging year for schools and it is pleasing that the voices of our members have been heard.

“Schools in Wales were promised an inspection-free year to allow them to concentrate on new curriculum development. COVID-19 forced schools into dealing with the crisis, rightly choosing to focus on supporting learners at home and in school. For many schools, the development work on the new curriculum and additional training for staff necessarily took a back seat. For inspections to resume in September would have been a mistake and a distraction to the priority of COVID-19 recovery in schools. Fortunately, Estyn recognises the situation faced in schools and is working to support the profession.

“I am heartened to hear that Estyn plans to pilot new inspection arrangements with schools that agree to take part. It is vital that the new arrangements are trialled in schools ahead of implementation to ensure they are fit for purpose.

“If the new curriculum is to succeed; if recovery is to be our focus and if wellbeing of learners and staff is going to be at the heart of everything we do in education, it is vital that schools are given the space they need to allow that to happen.

“NAHT Cymru has published a blueprint for education recovery in Wales. Removing unnecessary burdens and distractions, including a longer pause for formal Estyn inspections. Our early discussions with Welsh Government about recovery have been productive and we urge policy-makers to tack account of our Blueprint.”

The blueprint can be read at:

https://www.naht.org.uk/members-home/naht-cymru/naht-cymru-news/naht-cymrus-blueprint-for-education-recovery/