Opinion

A new job description for Ofsted inspectors?

With Ofsted inspections on hold, Dr Helen Edwards looks at how inspectors could support settings as critical friends
Dr Helen Edwards
Dr Helen Edwards

Inspections are on hold in England for the summer term. However, the Chief Inspector has insisted they will play an even more important role once they resume. And worryingly, there is a distinct sense this will be sooner rather than later.

What a missed opportunity. In this extraordinary time, I believe inspections should be put on hold until Easter 2021. Settings need support as they grapple with re-openings, social distancing and new spikes of infection, rather than judgements.

The chief inspector has acknowledged that there are a considerable number of inspectors who are less than fully occupied and who are willing to do other work. We have a unique opportunity to give inspectors the chance to provide valuable support and CPD, and to give them a rare insight into what settings are doing to support the development and emotions of our youngest children.

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