Amanda Spielman, former Chief Inspector of Ofsted, about to be made a peer in the House of Lords. Spielman, who directed the schools watchdog from 2017 to 2023, a time of considerable upheaval and controversy. During her tenure, a deeply sad story developed with head teacher Ruth Perry. She felt unable to continue and took her own life following an Ofsted inspection. Spielman’s new peerage has been greeted with a divided response. Those who laud her specialized knowledge are pitted against those who condemn her handling of the mishap at best.
In Ms. Spielman’s last year as Ofsted chief inspector, the agency was chastised by an independent review. Unfortunately for Perry, their response—which the review concluded was “defensive and complacent”—came far too late. In November 2023, even more controversy ensued. Responding to Perry’s death, Spielman said that the “very tragic case” was being exploited to “discredit” Ofsted. This statement was roundly condemned from all sides, even Perry’s family and educators.
We understand that Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch was responsible for putting Spielman’s nomination forward for a peerage. Badenoch has remained silent on this controversial decision. A Conservative source highlighted Spielman’s potential contributions, stating, “You don’t get to the very top of your field without attracting critics, but Amanda is a brilliant thinker with a wealth of knowledge and will be a huge asset to Parliament.”
Not everyone agrees with this assessment. 3100 before it was notated by Rep. Professor Julia Waters, Ruth Perry’s sister, denounced the nomination.
“Through her response to Ruth’s death and the subsequent inquest and inquiries while head of Ofsted, Amanda Spielman showed herself to be lacking in many of the qualities that you would hope would be needed in Parliament.” – Prof Julia Waters
Spielman’s support of the government’s Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill attracted much ire. She argued that “effective reforms are being reversed,” expressing concern over potential changes to academies’ staffing rules and educational content.
The inquest into Ruth Perry’s death ruled that the Ofsted inspection was a contributing factor. Spielman’s leadership during this time is still a point of contention for her critics at the helm. Advocates contend her depth of expertise and ability to grasp complex educational systems ultimately make her more valuable. They maintain that she would be a potent addition to the House of Lords.
