Green Party leader Zack Polanski has promised to abolish Ofsted and increase teacher pay if his party wins the next general election. Speaking at the National Education Union (NEU) conference, Polanski described the schools inspectorate as a 'failed institution' and said teaching should move 'toward a genuinely collaborative model'.
Polanski's pledge comes amid ongoing discontent among teachers over workload and inspection regimes. The Green leader argued that Ofsted's current approach is 'toxic' and that a new system based on collaboration and support would better serve pupils and educators alike.
The announcement is part of a broader Green Party education platform that includes significant investment in state schools and a commitment to reducing class sizes. Polanski also reiterated the party's opposition to academies and free schools, calling for a return to local authority control.
In response, a government spokesperson defended Ofsted, saying it provides 'vital accountability' and helps drive up standards. The Department for Education added that teacher pay has already been increased under the current administration, with further rises planned.
