School which 'refused entry' to Ofsted over headteacher's death facing inspection

An Ofsted inspection is set to go ahead at a school which planned to “refuse entry” to the watchdog following the death of headteacher Ruth Perry.

Ms Perry, who was headteacher at Caversham Primary School in Reading, killed herself while waiting for an assessment from the non-ministerial government department in January.

The Ofsted report gave the school the lowest possible rating, despite being good in every category bar leadership and management, where it was judged “inadequate”.

Flora Cooper, executive headteacher of the John Rankin Schools in Newbury, Berkshire, announced plans to boycott an Ofsted inspection set to take place today.

She wrote on Twitter: “I’ve just had the call. I’ve refused entry. This is an interesting phone call. Doing this for everyone for our school staff everywhere!”

However, a member of the board of governors told reporters that the inspection will be going ahead, and the school “will fully engage in the process”.

A spokesperson for West Berkshire Council added: “An Ofsted inspection at John Rankin School will now go ahead today following discussions between the parties involved yesterday afternoon.

“We understand that the inspection process can be a busy and stressful time for teachers, governors and school staff.

“As a council, we work closely with all of our schools to support them through the inspection process and address any individual concerns.”

Ms Perry’s sister, Professor Julia Waters, said her death was a “direct result of the pressure put on her by the process and outcome” of the inspection”.

She said: “Our only hope is that Ruth’s sudden, appalling death will be the last to occur as a result of the intolerable pressures caused by the Ofsted system.”

Despite the boycott being called off, two former teachers, who gave their names as Ellen and Liz, stood outside the John Rankin Schools in protest.

Liz, who was mentored by Ms Perry when the school went into special measures, said: “There is not a day where I don’t think about Ruth and the loss not only obviously to her family but the entire teaching community.”

A petition calling for an inquiry into the inspection of Ms Perry’s school has more than 66,000 signatures, and an inquest into her death will take place at Berkshire Coroner’s Court later this year.

The government maintains that inspections from Ofsted are vital in order to ensure a good and safe standard of learning across the country.

A Department for Education spokesperson said: “It is a legal requirement for schools and nurseries to be inspected by Ofsted, and they have a legal duty to carry out those inspections.

“Inspections are hugely important as they hold schools to account for their educational standards, and parents greatly rely on the ratings to give them confidence in choosing the right school for their child.

“We offer our deep condolences to the family and friends of Ruth Perry following her tragic death and are continuing to provide support to Caversham Primary School at this difficult time.”

Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected] in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK

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