About this podcast

Sometimes the choice of guests aligns with a major development in an area they have a keen interest in.

This was the case this week when Tracey O’Brien, Headteacher at Wallington High School for Girls and author of ‘Rethinking School Inspection’ joined the chat to consider the launch of a draft school inspection framework and the announcement by the Secretary of State of a fresh approach to school improvement. With a deep understanding of inspection drawn from 30 years experience Frank and Stan were able to discuss in detail some of the key proposals with Tracey.

It’s not a complete wipeout in terms of criticisms but there is no holding back. We hope it is helpful and we encourage everyone to contribute to the Ofsted consultation.

Enjoy.
Listen On:

Meet the Host

Frank Norris and Stan Johnson have been friends since 1995. Both have had successful and lengthy careers in education. Frank was a very senior HMI with Ofsted for 11 years and was CEO of the Coop Academies Trust for 6 years.

Stan was seconded to Ofsted for a year and then returned to headship before working as a senior adviser with Lancashire LA. He has latterly led a successful education consultancy in the North West. Prior to Covid-19 the two colleagues would meet in Manchester for a pint or two but the pandemic put an end to that.

On 1 May 2020, they recorded their first video chat as a way of recording their emotions and reactions to the pandemic. After putting the video on Youtube as a safe place to store their discussions they realised that some followers began to appear and were interested in their leadership perspectives. Now, with over 170  weekly episodes and usually an eminent guest joining them, they have a growing and increasingly influential following.

We Will Help - Get In Touch

Looking for Leadership Support?