Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what discussions he has had with Ofsted to ensure their forthcoming inspections take into account the disruption that the covid-19 outbreak has had on schools, teaching and pupils.

Ministers engage regularly with Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector, Amanda Spielman, on a range of matters, including inspection arrangements in the changing context of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Ofsted inspection continues to play an important role in providing independent assurance as providers respond to COVID-19. It is right that the arrangements are kept under review, and adjustments made where appropriate.

Ofsted has updated its inspection handbooks and adjusted its inspection approach to take account of the challenges raised by COVID-19. From the start of the calendar year to 31 January, Ofsted temporarily halted use of part time inspectors who are also frontline leaders so they could focus on their leadership responsibilities.

Additionally, schools facing acute disruption, including due to significant staff absence, can request a deferral of the inspection. Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector has confirmed that all requests will be considered carefully and sensitively by Ofsted.