Ofsted launches 'Big Listen' to tackle disadvantage

Ofsted’s new Chief Inspector Sir Martyn Oliver has opened 'The Big Listen,' inviting views from parents and the sector on Ofsted's work and future reforms.

The listening exercise will run for three months and is calling for feedback from the full range of professionals and providers Ofsted works with, as well as the parents, carers, children and learners it works for.

Chief Inspector Sir Martyn Oliver launched the consultation at the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) in Liverpool this morning.

He said: "We want to see high standards for all children, and positive outcomes for all children. This is how we start to tackle disadvantage as a society – by opening new doors, creating new opportunities and better life chances.

"We don’t want disadvantage or vulnerability to be a barrier. Because if you get it right for the most disadvantaged, you get it right for everyone. Ofsted has a crucial role to play in making sure that happens, and pointing out when it doesn’t."

He continued: "We need to listen to feedback. To criticism. To ideas for small changes and for big reforms. If your work, your children, your decisions, your education or your care are impacted by what we do, we want to hear from you. Every voice will be heard, and nothing is off the table."

The Big Listen consultation asks a series of questions based around four themes: how Ofsted reports on its findings; How Ofsted carries out inspections; How Ofsted can have a positive impact in all the sectors it inspects; and What Ofsted needs to do to be a world-class inspectorate and regulator, trusted by parents, children and the sectors it works with.

Ofsted will launch a strand of the consultation specifically aimed at children, including those in the care system, later this month.

As well as the online consultation, independent organisations will carry out surveys and focus groups with parents and professionals to gather their views on Ofsted’s future direction. Ofsted staff will also gather views directly at a variety of events and meetings.