With reference to the entry The Slippery Slope, we have been in receipt of several complaints. They all refer to the fact the school’s website does not link to the latest Ofsted report and the misleading quotes from the earlier report of 2007.
We would like to think that this an oversight on the part of the school, even though 9 months have elapsed since the investigation.
Some prospective parents felt strongly enough to address the issue with Ofsted and they have sent us the following response from Christine Gilbert, Head of Ofsted (HMCI).
Dear Mr and Mrs L........
Thank you for your email of 17 November 2010, received in my office on the same date.
I am sorry you have concerns about the school’s website link to its ‘latest’ Ofsted inspection report. You explain that the website for Duke Street Primary School does not provide a link to the most recent Ofsted report.
I have looked on the school’s website and I agree that typing in the keyword ‘Ofsted’ produces quotes from, and a link to, the Ofsted inspection report of July 2007, rather than the more recent inspection report of March 2010. This is disappointing as it is important that parents like yourselves have access to the most up to date information about the school. However, as you may be aware, the most recent inspection report for any school can be found on the Ofsted website at www.ofsted.gov.uk. I have asked that contact be made with the school to advise them that someone has complained about the website.
While I understand your concerns about the website, I should advise that Ofsted does not have the statutory power to instruct a school to modify its website or to enforce changes, notwithstanding that updating the school website would result in a more up-to-date picture of pupils’ achievement and the quality of provision. Should you wish to pursue your concerns further with regard to the school’s website, you would need to follow the school’s complaints procedure and put your concerns in writing. You should be able to obtain a copy of this procedure from the school. You may also wish to consider writing to the chair of governors for the school expressing your concern.
Thank you for writing to me on this matter. I hope this response is helpful and that you have been successful in your search for a suitable school for your daughter.
Yours sincerely
Christine Gilbert
