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Ofsted Chief Inspector pre-appointment hearing

29 June 2016

The Education Committee holds a pre-appointment hearing with the Government's preferred candidate for the role of Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Education, Children's Services and Skills (HMCI), Amanda Spielman.

Witness

Wednesday 29 June 2016, Grimond Room, Portcullis House

At 9.30am

  • Amanda Spielman, Government's preferred candidate for the position of Chief Inspector of Education

Inquiry focus

The Committee examines the candidate's independence and professional background and ask about the challenges facing Ofsted and what Ms Spielman would do as Chief Inspector to improve education, children services and skills provision across the country. It sets out its findings on the candidate's suitability for the post in a report ahead of a final decision on whether to proceed by the Secretary of State for Education.

Role and responsibilities

HMCI leads Ofsted's inspection and regulatory work and is responsible to Parliament for the staffing and management of the organisation and for ensuring its efficient and effective use of resources. If confirmed, Ms Spielman will replace the current Chief Inspector, Sir Michael Wilshaw, in January 2017.

Since 2008, departmental select committees have had a formal role in the appointment process of some designated public posts which fall under the remit of their respective Government departments.

Chair's comment

Education Committee Chair, Neil Carmichael MP, said:

"Her Majesty's Chief Inspector has an important duty in raising standards in education, skills and children services.

We want to make sure that the Government's preferred candidate has the necessary independence, skills and experience to be an effective Chief Inspector."

Further information

Image: iStockphoto