Paul Whiteman, general secretary at school leaders’ union NAHT, said: “NAHT congratulates Sir Martyn Oliver on becoming the preferred candidate to become the next chief inspector at Ofsted.

“This appointment comes at a critical moment in Ofsted’s history, with there now being widespread acceptance that significant reform to school inspection in England is urgently required.

“Subject to the appointment being approved, we look forward to engaging with Sir Martyn and discussing what role a reformed inspectorate should play going forward.”