Nursery World - Ofsted apologises to the family of former head teacher Ruth Perry

Ofsted’s chief inspector, Amanda Spielman, has apologised to Ruth Perry’s family for the ‘distress’ that the former head teacher experienced as a result of an inspection.

Chief inspector, Amanda Spielman, has published a statement following the inquest of Ruth Perry, who took her own life earlier this year, PHOTO: Ofsted

In a statement in response to the conclusion of the coroner’s inquest into Perry’s death by suicide, Spielman said, ‘Ruth Perry’s death was a tragedy that deeply affected many people. My thoughts remain with her family, the wider Caversham school community, and everyone else who knew and loved her.

Ofsted inspection 'contributed' to head teacher Ruth Perry's death, says coroner

‘On behalf of Ofsted, I would like to say sorry to them for the distress that Mrs Perry undoubtedly experienced as a result of our inspection.’

The chief inspector went on to list changes they are making at Ofsted, this includes developing training for all inspectors on recognising and responding to ‘visible signs of anxiety’, and what to do if a ‘pause’ is needed. The inspectorate is to delay inspections next week by a day or so to bring all lead school inspectors together.

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