Jo Fisher, Chair of the ADCS Regional Improvement and Inspection Policy Network said:
“ADCS has long held the view that the current Area SEND inspection framework is not fit for purpose and continues to advocate for the inspection regime to be paused until the current reforms have taken effect. However, ADCS recognises Ofsted and the CQC's position that there should not be a blanket deferral of SEND inspections for local authorities undergoing local government reorganisation. The scale and pace of reorganisation will vary significantly across the country, so if inspections are to continue, a case-by-case approach is the right one.
“What matters is that inspectorates continue to work closely with local authorities and partners, taking account of local circumstances, the totality of reforms affecting children's services, and the impact these are having on local systems and leadership. Where there is clear evidence that reorganisation or wider system disruption is affecting a local area's readiness, deferral should remain an option.
“ADCS remain focused on improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND throughout this period of significant change. We would welcome an inspection approach that is proportionate, reflects the realities of local systems, and supports improvement while maintaining appropriate accountability. Regrettably the current Area SEND inspection framework does not deliver this.”
ENDS
The Association of Directors of Children's Services (ADCS) Ltd is the professional leadership association for Directors of Children's Services and their senior management teams in England.
