Source · Select Committees · Education Committee

Recommendation 35

35 Deferred Paragraph: 111

Allow schools access to the evidence base for inspection judgements during complaints.

Conclusion
Ofsted must allow schools to gain access to the evidence base used to reach a judgement when making a complaint, making redactions to ensure that confidentiality and protection of the identity of individuals is maintained where this is necessary.
Government Response Summary
The government commits to transparency and ensuring schools understand the reasoning behind judgements, stating they will discuss how to improve this with the sector as part of the 'Big Listen' consultation rather than immediately allowing access to the evidence base.
Paragraph Reference: 111
Government Response Deferred
HM Government Deferred
A transparent inspection process is one where both the school and the inspection team can see how the evidence gathered connects clearly to the inspection outcome. Inspections must be – and be seen to be – fair. We are committed to making sure schools understand the reasoning behind our judgements and want to discuss with the sector how we can improve the way we do this (in line with Recommendation 21). ... The majority of recommendations will be explored through our ‘Big Listen’ (Recommendations 1, 3, 5 to 8, 10, 13, 20 to 22 and 24 to 25). We look forward to hearing the sector’s, and the public’s, views on these important matters, and will take action immediately after the Big Listen concludes.