A HEADTEACHER has admitted that Ofsted’s inspection guidelines are demanding and it is “challenging” for schools to achieve the top rating.

Westcliff High School for Boys in Westcliff, and Lee Chapel Primary School, in Basildon, have both retained their “outstanding” ratings this week.

The impressive result comes despite both schools going 15 years without a full inspection by the education watchdog, and comes at a time when the number of top ratings across the country is tumbling.

According to the watchdog, only 17 per cent of 370 “outstanding” schools kept their grade when they had a full reinspection in 2021-22.

Mike Skelly, headteacher at Westcliff High School for Boys, admitted it is exceptionally demanding for schools to keep up with the ever-changing framework while Sue Jackson, headteacher at Lee Chapel Primary School, claimed the framework is now “much more rigorous”.

He said: “The current Ofsted framework is challenging for all schools, and we are pleased that the inspectors were able to see the day-to-day dedication of so many at Westcliff High School for Boys.

“The school’s goal is to provide the highest quality education and support for its pupils.

“Although we were last inspected in 2007, that goal has never changed. We are delighted that the inspectors recognised this during the inspection.

“The current Ofsted framework is demanding, and the figures indicate it is challenging for schools to achieve the outstanding grade.

“I anticipate that the new HMCI (His Majesty’s Chief Inspector) will wish to review the current framework to ensure it is fit for purpose.”

The inspection framework sets out how Ofsted will inspect schools and inspectors use a criteria of dozens of points to make each of the graded judgements - which are regularly updated by the watchdog.

These points all come under categories which include the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.

Ms Jackson added: “I am incredibly lucky to work with such a wonderful team of professionals.

“Considering the inspection framework is much more rigorous and judgements are harder to achieve, it makes us even more proud that inspectors did not identify any areas for development.”

Helen Boyd, Southend councillor responsible for children’s services, education and learning, admitted it has got tougher for schools.

She said: “It is fantastic news for Westcliff High School for Boys. I congratulate all the staff, and pupils for retaining the rating after this length.

“It just goes to prove they did maintain the standards and good work in the school, not just for the inspection, but it is just what hey do.

“It has got tougher, and it is now easier for schools to lose an outstanding status. So, I think this is a great tribute to the school.”