Applications to become Ofsted’s next chief inspector will close in just three weeks’ time, with an advert posted today seeking a candidate who can provide “outstanding leadership” to the organisation.
Interviews for Amanda Spielman’s successor will end by 30 June, according to the advert, which the current chief inspector posted on her Twitter account this afternoon.
The advert says it is “essential” that candidates have “significant experience at a senior level in schools or trusts” and desirable that they have an understanding of the “direction of government policy and experience in at least one of the other areas within Ofsted’s inspection and regulatory remit”, such as further education.
The role is advertised at a salary of £165,000 per year, which is less than the £189,145 that Ms Spielman currently earns.
Tes understands that two multi-academy trust chief executives are in the running for the job.
Ofsted chief inspector role updated
And the job description has been updated in light of the cost-of-living crisis and Covid pandemic, stating that the candidate will be required to “ensure that Ofsted demonstrates awareness of, and sensitivity to, challenges providers have to deal with”, such as “a public health emergency” or the “impact of inflation on their young people, families and budgets” while maintaining a focus on high standards.
Ms Spielman started her tenure in 2017 and was due to step down at the end of 2021.
Her initial appointment was not met positively by MPs, with the Commons Education Select Committee deciding to oppose her selection.
The committee said it remained “unconvinced” as to whether Ms Spielman was the right person for the job, but she was appointed regardless.
She received an extension in 2021, taking her term to the end of 2023.
The new chief inspector will have a five-year term and will start the job as the school inspection watchdog faces calls for reform.
An incoming Labour government would consult on replacing Ofsted inspection grades with a school scorecard, shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson told headteachers last week.
