As reported earlier in the week, Ofsted senior officials visited the Isle of Wight this week.
The council share this joint statement from leader of Isle of Wight Council and Ofsted senior officials on today’s meeting (Thursday 15 September 2016), in their own words. Ed
Leaders from the Isle of Wight and Ofsted senior officials have met this afternoon.
Under discussion were the improvement journey for children’s social care and schools and the next steps to improve outcomes for children living on the Island.
“We welcome today’s constructive meeting to discuss how leaders from the Isle of Wight and Ofsted can work together on these issues.
“The situation in the Isle of Wight highlights the particular need to raise expectations and improve attainment for children living in coastal areas across England.
“This meeting was an opportunity to discuss any misconceptions about the Isle of Wight that may exist. While the Island has its issues, like anywhere, including its status as a coastal area, its outcomes are improving.
“Since the inception of a partnership with Hampshire County Council in 2013, and with support from Ofsted, education on the Isle of Wight is improving. There is now only one school on the Island that is in a category, results and outcomes are getting better.”
Image from Left: Jackie Boxx – The Island Learning Centre; Linda Evans – headteacher Hunnyhill Primary; Steve Crocker, director for children’s services, Isle of Wight Council; Chris Russell – incoming regional director, South East, Ofsted: Matthew Coffey – chief operating officer, Ofsted; Councillor Jonathan Bacon – leader of the Isle of Wight Council; Joy Ballard – headteacher Ryde Academy; James Kempton – interim chair, Ofsted; Bradley Simmons – outgoing regional director, South East, Ofsted; John Metcalfe – chief executive, Isle of Wight Council
