22.6.2000

MP backs Moor Lane Junior School in Special Commons Motion

Kingston & Surbiton's Liberal Democrat MP, Edward Davey, has tabled a special Early Day Motion in the House of Commons to highlight the problems caused by Ofsted's undermining of morale at Moor Lane Junior School.   Mr Davey wrote to Ofsted in 1999 outlining his concerns with inaccuracies in their first report having visited the school and witnessed the dedication by staff on a number of occasions.  The motion expresses his disappointment with Ofsted's report and negative feedback recently received from HMI inspectors both of which have been seen as the cause of all the full time teachers at the school planning to leave at the end of the school year.

Edward Davey said,

"I know many of the teachers at the school and their efforts should be commended.  Ofsted and HMI inspectors have been off the mark and clearly not appreciated all the hard work everyone has put in."

"This is not surprising given that the inspectors have turned up on isolated occasions without the benefit of witnessing the daily successes at this school, nor do Ofsted seem to have taken account of the challenges faced at Moor Lane with its high proportion of children with special education needs. Unfortunately, their conclusions have completely undermined all the hard work teachers have put in and I can understand their frustration."

Commenting on the teachers' response, Edward added,

"It is unfortunate that they have decided to leave; however I know that Governors and the LEA are working together to ensure that it will be business as usual next year."

"I know the strength of the support the school receives from parents and the local community and I am sure the school with bounce back."


A copy of Edward Davey's Early Day Motion.

Moor Lane Junior School Ofsted Inspections

That this House is disappointed by Ofsted and HMI's handling of its inspections at Moor Lane Junior School; is gravely concerned that the enormous efforts made by teachers and governors to improve the school have not been properly recognised; considers the recent resignations of the majority of full time members of staff to be a direct consequence of Ofsted and HMI's excessive criticisms; welcomes the positive support given to the school during this difficult period by governors, staff and parents; recommends aspiring teachers to apply for a position at this excellent community-orientated school; and calls upon the Government to review the role of Ofsted and HMIs to ensure that the teaching profession is given positive encouragement and support to develop instead of only having their efforts and hard work deliberately undermined.