Ofsted ‘seen as toxic’ and schools should ‘self-evaluate’ instead, says inquiry

An inquiry has said Ofsted inspectors should not be in classrooms and the whole system needs “a big change.”

The Beyond Ofsted inquiry called for “transformational” alteration to school inspections. 

The inquiry is being chaired by former schools minister Lord Jim Knight and funded by the National Education Union.

The report recommended that schools should instead be responsible for their own improvement plans.  

Ofsted said inspections are needed but Lord Knight’s inquiry said Ofsted was now seen as “toxic” and “not fit for purpose” and was in need for real reform.

The death of head teacher Ruth Perry, who ended her own life, highlighted the pressure inspections can put on a school and led to discussions about how Ofstead operates.