Four out of five independent faith schools rated inadequate by Ofsted

Following the BSI’s loss of its approved inspectorate rating, due to issues regarding judgements and suitability of inspectors, Ofsted stepped in to inspect the schools.

The watchdog rated nine schools as inadequate and eight as in need of improvement, meaning that over 2,000 pupils are being educated in schools operating under unsatisfactory standards.

Out of the 22 schools, just one school, Manchester Islamic High School for Girls, was rated outstanding.

Sir Michael Wilshaw, chief inspector of schools, said four schools did not promote fundamental British values, resulting in 700 pupils not being ‘prepared for life in modern Britain’.

He added: “This is deeply worrying given our national focus on this work over the past year.

“Equally worrying is that efforts to promote and embed these important values within the curriculum were undermined by the failure of leaders to model good practice, for example through the work of governors.”

A Department for Education spokesperson said: “All independent schools must comply with the Independent School Standards, and where there are concerns a school is failing to meet these standards, we will take swift action. In the light of Ofsted’s findings, we will review the prioritisation of inspections of the remaining Bridge Inspectorate schools.”

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