The Ethics and Impact of Ofsted Inspections

This chapter examines the complexities of the Ofsted grading system, focusing on how leadership perceptions and inspector biases can affect school inspection outcomes. It discusses recent research findings that highlight disparities related to gender and the qualifications of school leaders, raising critical ethical questions about the fairness of the inspection process. The narrative is further punctuated by the tragic case of head teacher Ruth Perry, linking inspection pressures to broader mental health concerns within the education system.