Commenting on the school inspection results data published today by Ofsted, Nick Brook, deputy general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT, said:

“It is interesting to see that after a year of schools not being inspected, Ofsted find schools have improved. This shows not only how hard schools have been working and what a great job they have been doing, but also calls into question the role Ofsted really play in driving school improvement.

“In reality, Ofsted have been more of a hindrance than a help to schools during the pandemic. Inspections are the very last thing schools need given the current Covid situation. School leaders are under enormous pressure just to stay open and minimise disruption for learners. Pupils will be best served by their schools not being distracted by preparation for inspection.

“While Ofsted have paused inspection for the rest of the year, clearly, one week goes nowhere near far enough. This suspension should be extended as long as schools are in the grip of the pandemic, well into the New Year.”