Headteachers threaten strikes over Ofsted report card plans after High Court rejects legal challenge

Headteachers are threatening strikes over new Ofsted report card plans following the High Court's rejection of their legal challenge. The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT), representing 37,000 primarily primary school heads, argues the redesigned system, which drops overall ratings for scores across six sub-categories, will increase stress and negatively impact staff wellbeing. Despite the NAHT's judicial review claim, a judge found Ofsted's consultation process to be lawful. The overhaul of Ofsted's inspection system was initiated by the Labour government, partly in response to the death of Ruth Perry, who died by suicide after her school was downgraded. While the intention was to lessen the inspection burden, many teachers feel the new, more detailed assessment criteria have exacerbated it. The NAHT has stated that narrative-only verdicts are the preferred approach for safeguarding wellbeing. ... download the app to read more