Ofsted plans surprise inspections

Schools may be subject to “lightning inspections” under plans being considered by Ofsted.

A pilot project will see inspectors visit schools unannounced.

Inspectors could go in to schools following concerns raised by parents about teaching standards, said Chief Inspector of Education, Christine Gilbert, to the Schools Select Committee in Parliament.

The current notice period is 48 hours, but Ofsted believe that could allow some schools to rehearse specially prepared lessons.

Changes could come in from 2009.