The Department for Education has announced the removal of single-word verdicts on schools in England from Ofsted inspections. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson stated that reports issued in the new academic year will still use single or two-word judgments across four categories but schools won’t receive a single-word verdict for overall performance. A new report card system for schools will be introduced in September 2025. Despite the removal of these ratings, Phillipson emphasized that failing schools could still be forced to become academies if necessary. She expressed a commitment to driving up standards and intervening when schools are not making appropriate improvements.
Former Ofsted chief inspector Amanda Spielman welcomed the change, stating that the old system was more of a problem than help, citing the fear of consequences associated with one-word judgments. Teaching unions and parents have also welcomed the removal of these verdicts, as they were considered too crude and had serious consequences for schools. Meanwhile, the Conservative leadership contest is heating up, with favorite candidate Kemi Badenoch criticizing the Labour government as “clueless, irresponsible, and dishonest.”
The removal of single-word verdicts has been praised for providing a more nuanced and fair assessment of schools without the burden of heavy consequences associated with inadequate ratings. This change aims to improve the inspection process and ensure that schools receive appropriate support and interventions to enhance standards and student outcomes.
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