School leaders reject revised Ofsted inspection plan, poll shows

Ofsted’s revised approach to school inspection has been overwhelmingly rejected by school leaders, according to a new poll conducted by the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT).

The snap survey, which was conducted yesterday (10 September), drew more than 1,400 responses overnight. It found that 91% of leaders opposed the new inspection framework, with almost two thirds strongly opposed.

The poll showed that 91% of respondents believed the changes would have a negative or very negative effect of their well-being, with 62% “strongly opposed” to the revised plans.

These findings follow an independent report commissioned by Ofsted into the impact of its initial proposals, which concluded they would harm school leaders’ well-being. Critics say the inspectorate has not done enough to address those concerns.

Analysis of more than 800 free-text responses highlighted several recurring themes. Leaders warned the revised framework would damage mental health, with many citing stress, burnout and decisions to leave the profession. Others criticised what they saw as superficial changes, saying the grading system remained punitive despite new terminology.

Concerns were also raised about increased workload. Respondents said the shift from “best fit” to “secure fit” judgements and the expansion of inspection areas would require significant additional preparation. The short implementation timeline, set for November, was described as unrealistic.

Many leaders argued the process remained “high stakes”, with fears over reputational damage and the introduction of colour-coded report cards. Distrust of Ofsted featured strongly in the responses, with some describing consultation as a “tick-box exercise”.

Other points raised included worries that the framework fails to reflect the context of disadvantaged schools or those with high numbers of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Some respondents warned the visual design of new report cards could stigmatise schools in the eyes of parents and communities.

A number of school leaders called for a fundamental reform of the inspection system, pointing to approaches in Wales and Northern Ireland as more constructive alternatives.

Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the NAHT, said: “School leaders’ comprehensive rejection of Ofsted’s new inspection plans shows that the small-scale changes they have made to their original proposals have not done enough to alleviate concerns.

“This is the result of Ofsted’s failure to properly listen to and engage with teaching professionals, or to learn lessons from other jurisdictions where high stakes inspections have been abandoned in favour of more measured and supportive forms of accountability.”

He added: “It has lost the confidence of those it inspects, meaning its plans cannot go forward. Wise counsel must prevail – the government must act to safeguard the well-being of teachers and leaders.”