Using data, improving schools

06 Aug 2008 Ofsted

Ref: 070260

This report considers the different types of school performance data available to people working with schools, from teachers and headteachers to inspectors, local authorities and national policy makers. It shows how these data, if used intelligently, can inform judgements about the strengths and weaknesses of schools and help to secure the improvements needed for the children attending them.

The report stresses that data must be used with care. The challenge for all those working with schools is to investigate the clues that data give about effectiveness and so reveal the underlying story behind the figures. Using data, improving schools is intended to contribute to achieving this goal.