Product reviews for Taking Control 3

Taking Control 3 is dedicated to the memory of Ruth Perry, the head teacher of Caversham Primary School for whom the school’s Ofsted inspection led directly to the loss of her life. Edmund Barnett-Ward, the author of the foreword, knew Ruth as the head teacher of his children – she was a part of his life. I cannot think of a more powerful and relevant opening statement.

Taking Control 3 represents a pragmatically courageous take on the cowardly reality that is Ofsted 2025 – post review, unhelpful to parents, not focussed on improvement, and still immoral. The book will positively help and support and is, in the true spirit of its author, a book that will make especially school leaders feel less lonely and more empowered.

As Edmund Barnett-Ward hints in the foreword: it is a shame that Taking Control 3 had to be written. However, as educators, which we all are, we should be most grateful for very significant mercies.