Jo Fisher, Chair of ADCS Standards, Performance and Inspection Policy Committee, said:

“There is a strong and improving picture of Ofsted judgements across the country, including a degree of consistency in reports of strong practice, which our long-established sector-led improvement and peer challenge efforts contribute towards.

“The ILACS framework includes smaller, more regular touch points via focused visits in-between big inspection events every few years, plus an ongoing dialogue and relationship with regional Ofsted teams, which is helpful.

“Where performance is giving concern, the sector offers support. There is also a programme of intervention by national government and close monitoring by Ofsted during the improvement journey.

“Increasingly the sector is involved in this improvement work, with stronger performing LAs supporting those in difficulty. This compares to a decade ago, when the solution was seen as being the removal of children’s services altogether via a trust, or partnership with the private sector.”

ENDS