Commenting on the publication of the inspectorate’s annual report, Daniel Kebede, General Secretary of the National Education Union, said:
“This report rightly highlights the complex issues that school staff are facing, including the acute lack of SEND support for children and increasing rates of absenteeism. These issues are not separate but interconnect and compound the challenges for too many young people. The impact of rising child poverty must also not be forgotten.
“Despite these challenges, it is to the credit of our members that they are able to provide engaging and inclusive education. Ofsted's Annual Report highlights the positive outcomes for the vast majority of children, and the high standard of education they receive.
“To maintain quality education we must see more investment in schools and the services that will support all pupils to thrive. Reforms to our inspection system must also be part of the solution to the delivery of a transformative and self-improving education system. This means a shift away from a punitive approach towards one that is supportive, effective and fair.”