Headteachers are considering refusing entry to Ofsted inspections due to concerns about the impact on teachers’ mental health. This comes after a coroner warned that the current inspection system could contribute to future deaths. In December, a coroner found that an inspection had contributed to the suicide of a headteacher and issued a prevention notice to the government and Ofsted. To address these concerns, the new chief inspector, Sir Martyn Oliver, announced a two-week pause in inspections to provide training on stress alleviation. However, schools argue that the training provided is insufficient. Headteachers are calling for significant changes before allowing Ofsted access to their schools.
One headteacher, who spoke anonymously, said that they are considering barring Ofsted on health and safety grounds, with the support of governors. They believe that they have no control over the inspection process and how it could impact the mental health of their staff. The headteachers’ unions have had a constructive meeting with Sir Martyn Oliver, discussing ways to make the system less punitive and fairer. However, angry school leaders warn that these promises may be empty.
Headteachers and unions are further frustrated by the revelation that Ofsted made the decision to pause January inspections in mid-December but did not inform anxious teachers. This lack of transparency has caused concerns about the priorities of the inspectorate. Teachers and unions question the credibility of the proposed changes, given this decision.
The headteacher of a primary school in Newbury, Berkshire, who previously attempted to refuse entry to Ofsted following a headteacher’s suicide, stated that they are waiting to see if the new chief inspector will take real action. However, they warned that if the changes are not substantial enough, heads may either resign or stand together to demand change.
While some school leaders are considering refusing entry, they would be breaking the law if they follow through with this action. However, they argue that they are also responsible for their staff’s health and safety. It is clear that there is a significant divide between the need for accountability and the current relationship between schools and Ofsted.
The traumas experienced by teachers during inspections, such as fainting, being unable to speak, or becoming sick, have been compared to the reactions of families receiving devastating news. This highlights the severity of the impact that inspections can have on individuals’ mental and physical well-being. Experts have expressed doubts about the effectiveness of half-day mental health training in addressing these concerns.
Ultimately, headteachers are calling for significant changes in the inspection system to ensure the well-being of their staff and to create a more supportive and collaborative approach. As Sir Martyn Oliver takes charge, many headteachers are waiting to see if he will deliver the changes they need or if they will have to resort to more extreme measures to bring about the necessary reforms.
