Ofsted review must be robust in its independence and impartiality says NAHT

Responding to the announcement that former Ofsted chief inspector Dame Christine Gilbert is to lead an independent review into the organisation's response to the death of headteacher Ruth Perry, Paul Whiteman, general secretary at school leaders' union NAHT, said:

“This independent review is a vital piece of work. NAHT knows Christine Gilbert well and she is a widely respected and knowledgeable figure in education. We believe that she will have the insight and determination to carry out a comprehensive review of Ofsted's response to the tragic death of Ruth Perry.

“However, it is important to confront head-on the concern that some might express about a former chief inspector reviewing the work of Ofsted. It is therefore crucial that the review demonstrates a robust level of independence and impartiality. 

“This is even more important on the back of the Big Listen exercise which has disappointed many within the profession. Ofsted must demonstrate that it is serious about making the changes that are long overdue.”