Chief inspector Amanda Spielman will stay on at Ofsted for two more years, it was announced today.

Tes revealed in March that Ms Spielman was likely to seek an extension to her five-year term to give the new school inspection framework that she introduced more time to bed in.

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Her new term will start on 1 January 2022, at the point that her initial five-year term finishes, and will run until 31 December 2023.

Ofsted said that Ms Spielman will work closely with education secretary Gavin Williamson “to support the early years, schools, colleges and children’s services as they support children to recover from the impact of the pandemic”.

Full Ofsted inspections are expected to start again from September 2021, while “remaining sensitive to the context of the pandemic”.

Mr Williamson said: “Amanda Spielman has a wealth of knowledge and experience from her five years leading Ofsted that will be invaluable as we work to support the education sector to make sure every child is able to recover from the impact of the pandemic.

“I am grateful she will remain in place as Her Majesty’s chief inspector for a further two years to oversee a smooth reintroduction of a full programme of inspections, providing vital constructive challenge and reassurance to parents and families.”

Ms Spielman said: “As the country emerges from Covid restrictions, the education and care of our children has the highest priority - and there has never been more focus on the skills agenda as we re-energise our economy.

“Ofsted’s work improves education and social care. I’m delighted to have more time as chief inspector and I’m determined to spend that time acting in the best interests of children and learners.”