Should the one-word Ofsted ratings be scrapped - vote in our poll

20 November 2023 , 13:05

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Let us know if YOU think one-word Ofsted ratings should be scrapped (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The one-word Ofsted rating could be abolished following a report calling for an overhaul of the inspection regime - and we want to know what YOU think.

This comes as the Institute For Public Policy Research (IPPR) has warned the high-pressure checks are driving teachers out of the profession due to stress. The overly simplistic categories - outstanding, good, requires improvement or inadequate - often trigger abrupt changes to management.

In a report, the think tank described the single-word assessments as unreliable and are dependent on which inspector arrives at the school. It suggests shifting to a "narrative-driven" approach, with reports that are specifically tailored to parents, guardians and pupils.

Loic Menzies, a former teacher who wrote the report, said: "A football-manager culture, driven by one-dimensional judgements dominates our education system. Today’s report charts a path to a future in which high standards are combined with a supportive and empowering infrastructure that helps teachers and schools to be the best they can be."

Efua Poku-Amanfo, research fellow at IPPR, added: "The status-quo isn’t working. Tactics like league tables and targets have run out of road, we need a new approach to helping schools improve. We propose a new system which empowers schools and teachers to innovate, utilising their experience and expertise."

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Following the death of headteacher Ruth Perry in January, Ofsted has been under pressure to scrap the one-word assessments. The 53-year-old took her own life after being told her school, Caversham Primary, was being downgraded from Outstanding to Inadequate. Do you think the one-word Ofsted ratings should be scrapped? Vote in our poll HERE to have your say.

*If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email [email protected] or visit their site to find your local branch

The Mirror will also be discussing the topic with you in the comments section below and you can join in! All you have to do is sign up, submit your comment, register your details and then you can take part.

Freya Hodgson