Laura Doel, director of NAHT Cymru, said: "This announcement follows concerns raised by us over workload and the wellbeing of school leaders during negotiations with the Welsh government. The severe pressure placed upon schools is only being heightened by these unnecessary mock inspections.

"This statement sends an important signal that mock inspections have no place in Wales. We welcome this step while we continue to push for action to address the myriad of issues blighting our schools system which ultimately impact children’s education.

"The intolerable strain unfunded pay awards and bureaucracy puts on schools remains a priority area for discussion and our members remain in industrial action in the form of action short of strike while negotiations continue."