Ofsted has updated their school inspection handbooks to reflect changes in legislation found in the Education and Adoption Act 2016. This legislation altered the powers of local authorities and regional schools commissioners (RSCs) to intervene in schools.
There have also been updates to some aspects of the handbook relating to governance. The handbook now states (paragraph 85) that, where a school is in a multi academy trust (MAT), inspectors will ensure they meet with those “directly responsible for exercising governance of the school and for overseeing its performance”. While in some cases significant responsibilities may be delegated to an academy committee, the trust board remains the accountable authority. It is the NGA’s view that at least one trustee should meet with the inspector (either in person or over the phone).
The handbook also now states that inspectors will now consider a governing board’scommitment to its own development in order to improve its performance.
To access the updated handbooks, visit the National Governors' Association website (external link).