Headteachers threaten strike ballots after losing confidence in Ofsted

School leadership unions in England have warned that they could pursue industrial action over the impact of Ofsted inspections on headteachers and staff.

ASCL has passed a motion of no confidence in the inspectorate. It says it may hold an indicative ballot if changes are not made, citing concerns about members’ wellbeing and morale.

The NAHT will discuss its response at an executive meeting next week. Its general secretary, Paul Whiteman, said industrial action would be among the options considered.

The dispute follows criticism that Ofsted’s inspection framework, introduced last year to reduce pressure and workload, has instead increased strain for some school leaders. Education Secretary Lucy Powell has called for the framework to be reconsidered.

Ofsted said it is working with the Department for Education and school leaders to make accountability fair and proportionate, and said it would continue to listen to professional feedback. The unions are seeking significant changes to the system.