Ofsted announces an investigation into the curriculum

Responding to the announcement by Amanda Spielman HMCI on an investigation into the curriculum Debbie Barnes, Chair of the Association’s Educational Achievement Policy Committee, said:

“Every child and young person should have access to a good quality education including a broad curriculum to help them flourish and realise their ambitions in life. It is extremely concerning that some schools are not providing children with the education they deserve in order to improve their position in league tables. We know, anecdotally, that some schools off-roll vulnerable pupils for the same reason. It is right that Ofsted investigates this sort of practice wherever concerns arise, it is unacceptable and not in the best interest of our learners. The current focus of Ofsted’s framework for inspecting schools is on performance and not on the progress made by pupils during the course of their studies. The framework does nothing to promote inclusivity across the school system or the collective moral purpose of schools and local authorities to collaborate and work together in the best interest of children. This is particularly critical when it comes to our most vulnerable students including children in care and children with special educational needs and disabilities.”

ENDS

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