Listen "Episode 7 with Edmund Barnett-Ward"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode, Edmund Barnett-Ward joins Matt Jessop and Al Kingsley for an in-depth conversation about the state of Ofsted and school accountability in England. Edmund, known for his advocacy following the tragic death of headteacher Ruth Perry, shares his insights on the flaws in Ofsted's inspection framework, its lack of independent oversight, and the pressures it places on school leaders.
Key discussion points include:
The ineffectiveness of Ofsted's "tinkering" reforms and its continued focus on judgment rather than improvement.
The urgent need for an independent complaints process to ensure fairness and accountability.
The harmful impact of Ofsted's high-stakes inspections on school staff well-being.
Alternative peer-review models that could foster supportive, context-driven evaluations rather than punitive measures.
Edmund also reflects on his background as a toy designer and his work on Doctor Who action figures, bringing a creative perspective to the discussion.
🔍 A thought-provoking conversation that challenges the status quo and calls for meaningful reform in school inspections.
🎧 Listen now to explore how we can create a more supportive and effective education system.
Key discussion points include:
The ineffectiveness of Ofsted's "tinkering" reforms and its continued focus on judgment rather than improvement.
The urgent need for an independent complaints process to ensure fairness and accountability.
The harmful impact of Ofsted's high-stakes inspections on school staff well-being.
Alternative peer-review models that could foster supportive, context-driven evaluations rather than punitive measures.
Edmund also reflects on his background as a toy designer and his work on Doctor Who action figures, bringing a creative perspective to the discussion.
🔍 A thought-provoking conversation that challenges the status quo and calls for meaningful reform in school inspections.
🎧 Listen now to explore how we can create a more supportive and effective education system.
More episodes of the podcast Joining the Dots
Season 2, Episode 6 - Explore the Power of Happiness in Learning with Mathieu and Mark from Evolytes
05/12/2025
Season 2, Episode 3 - Unlocking Estonia's E-Residency Success, Skills & Education with Liina Vahtras
12/10/2025
Season 2, Episode 1- Empowering Education: The Role of Character and Mindset with Baasit Siddiqui
28/09/2025
Episode 18 with Richard O'Neil
18/07/2025
Episode 17 with Bianca Farthing
05/07/2025
Episode 16 with Carla Aerts
08/06/2025
Episode 15 with Naomi Timperley
30/05/2025
ZARZA We are Zarza, the prestigious firm behind major projects in information technology.