West End Extra - LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Published: 30 November 2007
Trigger happy? Inspectors weren’t called in by us
• IT is a nonsense to report that Westminster City Council called for Ofsted to inspect Pimlico School last year (Professor casts doubt on Pimlico’s Ofsted report, November 16). Contrary to the accusations quoted in your story, the council did not “trigger” the inspection to secure a “negative report”. All of the proper procedures and processes were strictly followed by Ofsted and there was nothing in any way “unusual” about the inspection.
Indeed, as Ofsted themselves confirmed to your reporter, Pimlico School was identified for an inspection as part of the normal round of the inspection cycle.
The school was subsequently placed in special measures in November 2006.
Our priority is to make sure all of Westminster’s pupils get the best education possible. Pimlico is starting to show real signs of recovery and we firmly believe that by making it an academy, not only will it transform the school and its facilities, but it will also provide a valuable resource for the community as a whole. CLLR NICK YARKER
Deputy Cabinet Member for Children’s Services
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