I am sure Ofsted would not allow an inspector without the appropriate knowledge, understanding and training to carry out any inspection on their behalf. All inspectors transferring to Ofsted have already supplied them with information regarding qualifications, training and experience.
Many of these new childcare inspectors are also registered nursery inspectors and with some additional training will be carrying out the first augmented inspections. In addition, other childcare inspectors also have qualifications and experience which would have made them eligible to apply for training but were prevented from doing so by their local authority employer.
I am sure many registered nursery inspectors also have relevant qualifications and experience to undertake childcare inspections and perhaps in the future may have an opportunity to apply for a post within the new Early Years Directorate.
It would be good to acknowledge the contribution that local authority inspectors have made to improving the quality of childcare and education since the Children Act was introduced. All inspectors and early years professionals should be working together to provide young children with the best quality care and education in a safe setting.
Diane Trout, chair, Association of Advisers for Under-Eights and their Families (AAUEF)
