Market Rasen MP welcomes Ofsted decision to remove 'Orwellian' nursery inspection report

Ofsted's decision to withdraw a report downgrading Market Rasen's Town & Country Kiddies day nursery for not being sufficiently culturally diverse has been welcomed by the town's MP.
Sir Edward Leigh EMN-160205-145224001Sir Edward Leigh EMN-160205-145224001
Sir Edward Leigh EMN-160205-145224001

Sir Edward Leigh MP said: “I stand by this excellent nursery completely and I’m glad Ofsted have withdrawn the report.

“The idea that three-year-olds need an in-depth understanding of different cultures is ridiculous.

“It’s clear to me that there are problems with a small number of Ofsted’s inspectors who just don’t seem to understand their proper role.

“Ofsted should be tackling this. Inspectors should be evaluating the curriculum and safety and leaving personal politics at the front door.

“We may not be very diverse in our part of Lincolnshire, but our minorities are more than welcome and are well integrated into our towns, villages and communities.

“I am worried that we may see more cases like this if the Government’s plan to enforce so-called ‘British values’ goes forwards – I can’t imagine anything less British than Orwellian nursery inspectors.”

The, now withdrawn, Ofsted report praised the nursery on several aspects, including relationships with parents, phonics teaching, and the motivation of children, however, the report criticised staff for not providing enough opportunities for children to learn about people who are different from themselves.