Thank you for contacting me regarding Ofsted inspections and British values.
The conduct of inspectors is the responsibility of Ofsted. If a school is concerned about either an inspector's conduct, or that an inspection is not being carried out in accordance with Ofsted's guidance, it should follow the formal process for raising this.
During inspections, Ofsted inspectors ask questions intended to determine whether pupils are prepared for the next stage in their education, using age-appropriate questions to check childrens' understanding of different lifestyles. I am assured that Ofsted has made it clear it is not looking for answers which are contrary to any faith, simply that pupils can express views which are neither intolerant nor discriminatory. I appreciate that this is appropriate if we are to make sure young people are ready for life in modern Britain.
Teaching respect for something is, as the Department for Education's guidance has made clear, different from promoting it. No teacher is expected or required to promote lifestyles that they do not agree with. Equally, it would be unlawful for any teacher to discriminate, harass or victimise someone on the grounds of the protected characteristics defined by the Equality Act 2010, which applies to all schools.
I hope this reassures you that the policies support the welfare of children, without damaging free speech or freedom of religion.
Thank you again for contacting me.
