Tag: Ofsted

Supporting children aged 16 and 17 who need help when they are homeless

~ Bruce Levitan

A new report from Ofsted highlihtes that although in 2022–23, a report by the Children’s Commissioner revealed that approximately 6,500 16- and 17-year-olds reported being homeless, the true scale of homelessness for 16- and 17-year-olds is a ‘hidden issue’. Many children are living in unstable environments, such as staying with a friend, and may not … Continue reading Supporting children aged 16 and 17 who need help when they are homeless

Derbyshire Derbyshire SEND Partnership Priority Impact Plan

~ Bruce Levitan

In the wake of the recent Oftsed report in Derbyshire Council's SEND provision, the LA has published its impact plan. In the plan's introduction they note: "The Partnership has apologised for these failings and is committed to addressing all the areas identified in the inspection report through this Impact Plan. The Impact Plan establishes the … Continue reading Derbyshire Derbyshire SEND Partnership Priority Impact Plan

Reforming Accountability – new report from the Education Policy Institute

~ Bruce Levitan

This newly published report from the Education Policy Institute looks at school accountability, over 30 years since the introduction of school performance tables for schools England. Key findings include: The current system was set up for a different era; Parents and carers are using accountability measures, but not necessarily getting the whole picture; Judging the … Continue reading Reforming Accountability – new report from the Education Policy Institute

Legislation breaks down barriers to opportunity for all children

~ Bruce Levitan

The Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill was introduced to Parliament on 17 December 2024, The Bill sets out seven key ambitions: Making a child-centred government Keeping families together and children safe Supporting children in the care system to thrive Cracking down on excessive profit making Driving high and rising standards for every child Removing barriers … Continue reading Legislation breaks down barriers to opportunity for all children

Ofsted annual report: education and social care serving most children well, but system pressures bite for most disadvantaged

~ Bruce Levitan

Ofsted find that most children are well-served by the education sector and, in social care, life-changing work is being done for children and young people every day. However: Many reasons to be positive about future of education and children’s social care, but huge challenges remain. Education and care providers struggling to recruit and retain skilled … Continue reading Ofsted annual report: education and social care serving most children well, but system pressures bite for most disadvantaged

Ofsted: the response to the Big Listen

~ Bruce Levitan

Ofsted have concluded their "Big Listen" consultation, and on 3rd September they published their response - this covers children’s social care, special education needs and disabilities and alternative provision, early years, schools, further education and skills, teacher professional development and education. For schools, the changes they have announced are as follows: remove the overall effectiveness … Continue reading Ofsted: the response to the Big Listen

Bridget Phillipson webinar for school workers

~ Bruce Levitan

In a recent webinar, the new Secretary of State for Education spoke about her commitment to work positively with the education sector, and was refreshingly open in admitming that she might make mistakes. This Schools Week article summarises her main talking points: Ofsted needs view of ‘wider range of services’ ‘High standards and curriculum breadth’ … Continue reading Bridget Phillipson webinar for school workers

NGA School and Trust Annual Governance Survey 2024

~ Bruce Levitan

The NGA has just published its latest (14th) School and Trust Annual Governance Survey. Highlight findings include: Funding Financial sustainability under threat Budget pressures intensify Falling pupil numbers Curriculum breadth at risk SEND funding crisis deepens Pupil, family and community needs SEND support demands surge Attendance is high priority Expanding school services Safeguarding issues growing … Continue reading NGA School and Trust Annual Governance Survey 2024

Oftsed ‘deep dives’ removed from ungraded inspections

~ Bruce Levitan

At the National Association of Headteacher’s (NAHT) Annual conference on 4 May, Ofsted’s Chief Inspector, Sir Martyn Oliver, announced changes to ungraded inspections. ‘Deep dives’ during ungraded inspections to stop from September. Move will affect 40% of all school inspections. The changes are designed to reduce the burden on school leaders and allow more time … Continue reading Oftsed ‘deep dives’ removed from ungraded inspections