Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the NAHT headteachers' union, is set to deliver a scathing critique of Ofsted at the union's annual conference, arguing that school inspections should not 'pressurise dedicated professionals to the point of destruction'.
Whiteman's Criticism of Ofsted
Whiteman will assert that Ofsted does not raise standards and instead puts lives at 'unnecessary risk'. He will reference the tragic death of headteacher Ruth Perry in 2023, which an inquest found was contributed to by an Ofsted inspection. Despite Ofsted agreeing to monitor the impact of the new inspection system on headteachers' mental health, Whiteman expressed anger that lives remain at risk. He holds Ofsted, the Government, and the judiciary responsible for potential future harm.
Legal Challenge Dismissed
The NAHT previously attempted a legal challenge against the new inspection report cards, which replaced single-word judgments, but the High Court dismissed the case.
Commendation and Concerns
Whiteman will also commend some government education policies, such as the expansion of free school meals and SEND reforms. However, he will raise concerns about the funding allocated for these reforms, suggesting it may be insufficient.
