Survey continues to show negative views of Ofsted
A survey by National Education Union members has found that an Ofsted inspection – or the prospect of an Ofsted inspection - adds to the working hours of 78 per cent of teachers.
It also shows an inspection negatively affects the mental health of more than half (57 per cent), rising to almost two thirds among teachers in primary schools (64 per cent).
Eighty-one per cent of teachers responding to the survey said that inspections fail to take full account of pupil need. This cuts across all roles, all phases, and all schools in areas of deprivation. It is most strongly felt by school leaders (89 per cent).
Almost three quarters (72 per cent) do not believe that Ofsted is contributing to improvement in the education system, and only four per cent of teachers believe Ofsted is a ‘reliable and trusted arbiter of standards.’
More broadly, there is widespread doubt that school accountability will be improved in the next five years. A majority (54 per cent) are either pessimistic or ‘very’ pessimistic about the prospect.
As a result, the National Education Union is calling on Ofsted and the government to pause the introduction of a new inspection system to give time to adequately consult education professionals and ensure a new system that is supportive, effective and fair.
Read moreLatest News
14/05/2025 - 11:36
A recent TeacherTapp survey found that only half of parents attended parents evening appointments at secondary schools, while a much higher percentage attend for primary schools.
14/05/2025 - 10:43
Headteachers in Scotland, following over £1 billion investment from the government, say that the attainment of their pupils that are experiencing poverty has improved.
13/05/2025 - 11:45
New research has found that one in four (28 per cent) school leaders and headteachers across England are planning to leave their roles, with 23 per cent attributing this to stress and poor mental health.
13/05/2025 - 09:35
The Welsh government is to increase the funding for the Flexible Skills Programme from £1.3 million a year to over £7.5 million, with support available for employees to access upskilling or re-skilling training courses.
12/05/2025 - 10:13
New data has found that Childline delivered 2,895 counselling sessions for anger issues, online and over the phone over the last year, which is a six per cent increase on the previous 12 months.
