Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 42
42
Deferred
Paragraph: 136
Ofsted fails to adequately consider challenges for schools with disadvantaged and SEND pupils.
Conclusion
We were concerned by the suggestion that Ofsted does not sufficiently take into account the challenges faced by schools with high numbers of disadvantaged pupils or those with SEND. We appreciate that the 2019 inspection framework aimed to improve the situation by moving away from outcome data, but there still remains a clear link between disadvantage and negative Ofsted grades.
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the concern about considering context, stating that Sir Martyn has committed to considering context more and will discuss improvements as part of the 'Big Listen' initiative.
Paragraph Reference:
136
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
Sir Martyn made clear his determination to see context considered more in our work at the launch of the Big Listen. We want to make sure our judgements about schools consider the context within which they are working. But he was equally clear that this must never compromise our having the highest expectations for all children – especially the most disadvantaged. Context is vital to understanding and reporting about schools, and we want to talk to the sector and to parents about how to improve this as part of the Big Listen, while never compromising on our expectations for children, in line with Recommendation 25.