The first term of the new inspection framework is now over. It has certainly delivered on its promise to raise the bar. Unofficial figures from Ofsted show that there has been a 60% increase in the schools slipping into category. It is clear that there is no intention of softening the approach. The consultation on changes to inspection from September 2012 continues and I would recommend to colleagues that you complete the on-line questionnaire. Clearly with the advent of no notice inspections, the re-inspection of outstanding schools with less than outstanding teaching and the strong focus on ‘satisfactory’ schools there is much at stake. There is much to give us concern, but the evidence from the Prospects Improve team is that there is much practice in our schools that needs to be celebrated.

More information about the new category of a school requiring improvement has emerged. The following is a summary of Sir Michael Wilshaw’s comments.

Sir Michael Wilshaw has confirmed his intention to scrap the ‘satisfactory’ judgment for school inspections. The move is designed to tackle the number of coasting schools that have remained stubbornly ‘satisfactory’ over a number of inspections. The proposals, which will be subject to consultation, would mean that any school that does not provide a good standard of education will be given a new ‘requires improvement’ grade.

No schools will be allowed to remain in the category of “requires improvement” for more than three years. Under the proposals, schools judged in this new category would be subject to earlier re-inspection, within 12-18 months rather than up to three years as at the moment. Schools will be given up to two inspections within that three year period to demonstrate improvement. Any school failing to do so will then require special measures.

Sir Michael Wilshaw HMCI, said: ‘There are too many coasting schools not providing an acceptable standard of education. Of particular concern are the 3,000 schools educating a million children that have been “satisfactory” two inspections in a row. This is not good enough. That is why I am determined to look again at the judgements we award, not only so we are accurately reporting what we see, but so that those schools that most need help are identified and can properly begin the process of improvement.

‘I make no apology for making even greater demands of an education system which has to respond with greater urgency to increasingly difficult and competitive economic circumstances. We will consult properly about the changes that we make but I am clear about our mission. It’s the same one I have been pursuing for many years as a head teacher: to help ensure our young people get an education that is really good or outstanding, whatever their background.’