The executive headteacher of the John Rankin Schools in Berkshire, Flora Cooper, proclaimed her intention to boycott the watchdog, but the local council stated that an inspection will proceed. It follows the suicide of colleague principal Ruth Perry, who killed herself while awaiting an Ofsted inspection.
After Ruth Perry’s death, a school that planned to “refuse entry” to Ofsted will be inspected.
In January, Ms. Perry, the principal of Caversham Primary School in Reading, committed suicide while awaiting an evaluation from a non-ministerial government agency.
The Ofsted report awarded the school the lowest possible rating. Even though it was rated “inadequate” in all categories except leadership and management.
Flora Cooper, executive headteacher of Newbury’s John Rankin Schools, will boycott today’s Ofsted assessment.
She tweeted: “I’ve just received the call. I have been denied entry. This is a fascinating telephone exchange. Implementing this for all of our educational personnel worldwide!”
However, a member of the board of directors told reporters that the school will “engage in the process in its entirety” during the inspection.
Following discussions between the parties involved yesterday afternoon, an Ofsted inspection of John Rankin School will now take place today, according to a spokesperson for West Berkshire Council.
“We recognize that the inspection procedure can be a hectic and stressful time for teachers, school administrators, and school personnel.
“We help all our schools through the inspection process and address any specific concerns as a council.”
Ms. Perry’s sister, Professor Julia Waters, said the inspection “exerted pressure on her by the process and outcome” and caused her death.
“Our only hope is that Ruth’s sudden, horrific death will be the last,” she said.
Despite the cancellation of the boycott, Ellen and Liz, two former teachers, demonstrated in front of the John Rankin Schools.
Liz, who was mentored by Ms. Perry when the school was placed in special measures, stated, “Not a day goes by that I don’t think about Ruth and the loss not only to her family but to the entire teaching community.”
More than 66,000 people have signed a petition calling for an investigation into the inspection of Ms. Perry’s school, and the Berkshire Coroner’s Court will hold an inquest into her death later this year.
The government maintains that Ofsted inspections are essential for ensuring a decent and secure standard of education across the nation.
A spokesperson for the Department of Education stated, “Ofsted is required by law to inspect schools and nurseries. And it is their responsibility to conduct these inspections.
“Inspections are incredibly essential because they hold schools accountable for their educational standards, and parents rely heavily on the ratings to help them select the best school for their child.
Following Ruth Perry’s tragic death, we extend our deepest condolences to her family and friends. And we continue to offer our support to Caversham Primary School during this difficult period.
