ABSTRACT
The approach to school inspection which was reflected in the Education (Schools) Act 1992 and in the setting up of the Office for Standards in Education (OFSTED) came as a shock to many school inspectors, both in Her Majesty's Inspectorate (HMI) and in Local Education Authority (LEA) inspectorates. Most school inspectors wish to believe that their work makes some contribution to raising standards in schools and improving the quality of educational provision. Under the Education (Schools) Act 1992, HMCI retains the broad statutory duty to keep the Secretary of State informed about standards of achievement, quality of education, efficiency of management of resources and the development of values in schools. Her Majesty's Inspectors (HMI) were seen as too remote and theoretical, often peddling the latest trendy ideas to, presumably, gullible teachers. As a registered OFSTED inspector, inspector believes that the current arrangements enable him to deliver the quantity of information which Her Majesty's Chief Inspector requires.
