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Written question asked by Lindsay Hoyle (Labour) on Tuesday, 12 January 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 January 2010. It was answered by Lord Coaker (Labour) on Tuesday, 2 February 2010 on behalf of the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Schools: Inspections

Question
To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what criteria Ofsted uses in appointing school inspectors; and if he will make a statement.
Answer

[holding answer 18 January 2010]: This is a matter for Ofsted. HM Chief Inspector, Christine Gilbert, has written to my hon. Friend and a copy of her reply has been placed in the Libraries.Letter from Christine Gilbert, dated 20 January 2010:"Your recent parliamentary question has been passed to me, as Her Majesty's Chief Inspector, for response.""There are two types of inspectors for schools: Her Majesty's Inspectors (HMI), who work directly for Ofsted; and additional inspectors (AIs), who are employed by Ofsted's inspection service providers (ISPs).""All inspectors are required to be fit, proper, competent and effective for undertaking their inspection duties. They must have credibility and up-to-date professional knowledge and will normally have gained a degree or an equivalent qualification. They are expected to have appropriate experience, usually drawn from a number of years as a senior manager in an education setting or service such as a headteacher or a local authority adviser. In addition, they need to have competence in the use of IT and a clear enhanced criminal records bureau (CRB) check that is refreshed every three years. Prior to appointment, all inspectors must provide employers' references and participate in a medical assessment to ensure they are fit for the work they are to undertake.""Inspectors must be able to: gather, analyse and interpret relevant evidence; make objective, fair and evidence-based judgements; communicate clearly both orally and in writing; display high levels of professional conduct; lead others and manage their work effectively to achieve high-quality outcomes.""All inspectors must uphold the highest professional standards and follow the code of conduct for inspectors at all times.""A copy of this reply has been sent to Vernon Coaker MP, Minister of State for Schools and Learners and will be placed in the library of both Houses."

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
505 c300W; 311006
Session
2009-10
Subjects
Inspections Schools
Link
View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk