Revised Ofsted inspection prompts headteachers to consider leaving jobs earlier than planned amid wellbeing concerns

Leaders report greater pressure

In a poll of school leaders whose schools had undergone inspections, 64% described the new process as much more intense than the previous framework. Nearly nine in 10, or 86%, said their mental health and wellbeing suffered while inspectors were at their schools.

More than half of the headteachers surveyed said they were considering bringing their careers to an earlier close because of the experience. The inspection changes began a year ago and were designed to lessen the workload and strain associated with the process.

Some reconsider leadership careers

A deputy head at an all-through school said the inspection had ended their ambition to become a headteacher. They described the process as the most difficult Ofsted inspection in a career spanning more than 20 years.

A headteacher at a secondary special school said they would not lead another inspection and planned to leave before the next one. They said the experience affected their personal life, including time with their children in the months before the inspection.

Calls for further changes

Education secretary Lucy Powell has signalled that she is considering additional changes to Ofsted. Whiteman said that a further reform that left the profession sidelined would not be enough.

An Ofsted spokesperson said many school leaders had considered inspections useful and constructive over the past year. The spokesperson also acknowledged that others had raised concerns about the effects on workload and wellbeing.

Department sets out its view

For crisis support, Samaritans can be reached in the UK and Ireland at 116 123, or by email at jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie. In the US, call or text 988; in Australia, Lifeline is available at 13 11 14.