52% of English Heads Plan Early Exit After New Inspections
A survey of 242 school leaders reveals that over half intend to leave their posts sooner than expected following the rollout of Ofsted's revised inspection regime.
By Sarah Reynolds ·
More than half of headteachers in England polled after undergoing inspections under the new Ofsted regime are considering ending their careers earlier than originally planned. The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) released findings on Tuesday showing that 52% of respondents answered affirmatively to the question of whether the inspection affected how long they intend to stay in their role.
The data indicates that the new framework, introduced in late 2025, has intensified the experience for most school leaders. Among the 242 participants who responded between June and October, 64% described the new inspections as much more intense than those under the previous system. Additionally, 86% reported struggling with their mental health and wellbeing while inspectors were on site.
The overhaul was implemented one year ago in response to the suicide of primary school headteacher Ruth Perry in January 2023. The changes were designed to reduce strain and workload, yet many leaders report that the adjustments have worsened conditions. One primary headteacher with 15 years of experience across three schools stated that they had never felt less able to do their job during an inspection.
Deputy head at an all-through school noted that the stress and anxiety of the process have ended their aspirations for headship. The official described the experience as the most challenging Ofsted inspection in their 20-year career. A primary school chief executive expressed fatigue with the high stakes and worry inherent in the process, describing the pressure as being on a different level.
A headteacher at a secondary special school said they will leave before the next inspection because the previous one made too much of an impact on their personal life. The leader reported not seeing their children for months in the run up to the inspection window.
Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the NAHT, characterized the findings as evidence of the unmitigated failure of an unaccountable and out of control inspectorate. He stated that Ofsted’s actions are driving experienced leaders from schools. In response, Education Secretary Lucy Powell indicated she is looking at further changes to Ofsted, though Whiteman called for more than a belated rearranging of the deckchairs that sidelines the profession.
The survey results follow declarations by teaching unions that they have no confidence in the schools watchdog. The unions threatened strike ballots unless significant wellbeing issues caused by the new framework are fixed. An Ofsted spokesperson acknowledged that while many leaders found inspections helpful, others highlighted the impact on workload and wellbeing. The spokesperson said the organization is working with the secretary of state on ways to reduce pressure felt by heads and teachers.
A Department for Education spokesperson said teachers do extraordinary work and inspections should support improvement without adding to existing pressures. The department stated it is working with Ofsted and school leaders to ensure accountability is collaborative, fair, and proportionate, with the goal of helping every school get better.
