Conclusion 22

His supporting statement shows a passion for the role, and an aim to make OFSTED a champion for children.14 Sir Martyn expressed his strong ambition to help schools recover from the COVID-19 pandemic which had been “a disaster” for educators and pupils across the country.15 We particularly welcome Sir Martyn’s focus on disadvantaged children, reflected in his questionnaire answers and in the evidence session.16 The Committee questioned Sir Martyn over his role on the Commission for Racial and Ethnic Disparities and reports of excessive strictness within his Trust’s schools, namely a “zero-tolerance” policy, and overuse of measures like isolation rooms and exclusions noting that such policies had been shown to have a particular negative effect on the most disadvantaged pupils in schools.17 Sir Martyn explained the context of using reflection booths within Outwood Grange Academy Trust and highlighted the importance of these tools, as a time-limited measure, in providing children with a safe space to reflect on their actions, supporting teachers and safeguarding all children in the Trust. He stated that his Trust’s policies contributed to a lower level of exclusions than other schools in similar settings. 13 Appendix 4: Candidate’s CV 14 Appendix 5: Sir Martyn Oliver - Supporting Statement - HMCI OFSTED 15 Q1 16 Appendix 6: Candidate Questionnaire 17 Q4; Qq19-20 Appointment of His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education, Children’s Services and Skills 11