Providers may be inconsistent, so are Ofsted but will they listen?
Many providers rightly lament that inspectors often have little or no understanding of the subject matter they are evaluating. The impact is evident in reading some reports where the skills developed and complexities of training are ignored, but aspects such as healthy lifestyles, English and mathematics, Prevent duty, etc., become the main focus.
It’s also interesting that recent dance and drama provision and performing arts almost always receive outstanding and are usually inspected by a lead from that specialism. Why can’t all have a sector-specific lead if one type of specialism can? Where inspectors don’t appreciate the skills they observe they make comments like this: “Tutors should make sure that all learners understand how to maintain healthy lifestyles. This will ensure they know how to stay healthy and can continue in their chosen careers.”
As providers, how can we demonstrate that healthy lifestyles are promoted? What promotional material is on display? Do tutors advise against high-caffeine drinks in class? We all know sugar is a problem, so how well are we advising learners of the dangers? Have you thought about approaching a local gym and encouraging them to promote low-cost membership?
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