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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas

School refuses to let Ofsted in after headteacher killed herself over negative report

A school has barred Ofsted inspectors from entering the premises after a headteacher killed herself following a bad report.

Ruth Perry, former headteacher at Caversham Primary School in Reading, took her own life in January while waiting for a negative Ofsted report.

Ms Perry, 53, had been told that her school was being downgraded from Outstanding to Inadequate following what she described as the "worst day of her life" when inspectors visited on November 15 and 16 last year.

She died by suicide in January.

Flora Cooper, executive headteacher at John Rankin School in Newbury, now claims she has informed inspectors not to turn up for a new inspection at her own school.

Flora Cooper, Executive Headteacher at John Rankin School (John Rankin Schools)

In a tweet posted on Monday, Ms Cooper said: "I've just had the call. I've refused entry. This is an interesting phone call. Doing this for everyone for our school staff everywhere!"

She went on to ask supporters to gather at the school in Newbury to show support, claiming she was "taking a stand" against Ofsted.

But in a follow-up tweet she called off the protests out of concern for her pupils and staff, and said: "Please can people not come to school now in the morning. I have to protect our children, our staff and our community."

Speaking on Monday, a spokesman for the local council responded to Ms Cooper's tweets by saying the announcement was unexpected, and said they would be working with "relevant partners" to try and find a resolution.

West Berkshire Council's statement read: "Earlier today a Head Teacher announced her intention to refuse access to OFSTED inspectors tomorrow.

"We were not aware this was going to happen and we are now in conversation with relevant partners to find a way to resolve these issues. These discussions continue and we will provide a further update as soon as we can.

"We understand that the inspection process can be a busy and stressful time for teachers, Governors and school staff.

"As a Council, we work closely with all of our schools to support them through the inspection process and address any individual concerns."

A petition calling for an inquiry into the Ofsted inspection that preceded Ruth's death has been signed by almost 40,000 people.

The report last year gave the school a 'Good' grade for quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and early years provision, but rated it 'Inadequate' for leadership and management.

One section described their safeguarding procedures as "not effective", while another stated that "leaders do not fulfil their safeguarding responsibilities effectively" and "need to improve their own safeguarding expertise".

The Mirror has approached Caversham primary school for comment.

*If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch

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