Edmund is absolutely right, this book shouldn’t be necessary, but unfortunately, it is. When the stakes are so high, being prepared for inspection is absolutely vital and Paul’s book draws on all his experience of leading inspections and supporting schools through the process to guide and help you to provide an inspection commentary for the new Ofsted framework that really sets the scene in your school and helps you to take control of the whole process. A recommended read!

If you’re in need of more than a cuddly cardigan to navigate the latest Ofsted framework, then this is the book for you. A combination of much needed ‘cutting to the chase’ practicalities coupled with the insight of someone with intellect, integrity and experience. It’s easy to hear Paul’s genuine reasons for supporting head teachers and the wider school team to present their school in the best possible light. He encourages us to be honest about the ever evolving joy and continuous change that make our individual schools unique, and to be open and honest about the influence these circumstances play as we respond to the unique communities that we serve. Self and external evaluation play a healthy role in getting education right for young people, especially when it allows us to celebrate what we’ve got right but encourages us to be open and honest about where we can improve. That critical eye is easier when we can cast it in a culture of trust, and this book reminds us to keep our purpose firmly in focus. Ultimately we want the best for our young people. Sometimes a helping hand when the fear sets in is all we need to get us back on track, and as always Paul is there to help us find ‘all things worth celebrating’ through a compassionate yet critically analytical eye. Paul Garvey’s latest book supports a positive pathway through the panic and does so with absolute aplomb.

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.

When I was head teacher at Parklands, Taking Control 1 by Paul Garvey wasn’t just a book – it was the spark that lit our fire. Without it (and Paul’s unwavering support), we wouldn’t have dared to dream of Outstanding, let alone achieve it. It gave us structure, confidence and the belief that we could aim high – and deliver.

Later, as Deputy CEO at Create Partnership Trust, Taking Control 2 came into my life like a well-timed rescue mission. It became our blueprint for improvement, helping us move one Inadequate school to Good and three RI schools to Good. Once again, Paul’s recipe worked wonders.

Now, with Taking Control 3, Paul has delivered the preparation every school leader needs. Whatever your opinion of Ofsted, being prepared is key – and this book is your battle plan.

I owe a great deal to Paul and to my schools. His books have shaped me professionally and personally. I’m proud to call him a friend – and, in many ways, a guardian angel.

If Ofsted inspections are the educational equivalent of navigating a minefield blindfolded, then Taking Control 3 is the torch, the map and the emotional support llama you didn’t know you needed.

This book doesn’t just prepare you for inspection – it prepares you for battle.

It’s sharp, savvy and soaked in experience. Paul doesn’t mince words, and thank goodness for that. He’s the Gandalf of school leadership: wise, slightly weary of the system and absolutely not letting you pass without a plan.

Taking Control 3 is the shield every school leader needs against the ever-shifting sands of the report card framework.

It’s not just a book – it’s a survival guide, a pep talk and a professional hug.

Paul, thank you for being our compass, our coach and, occasionally, our guardian angel. You’ve helped me lead with confidence, prepare with purpose and feel confident in the face of grading grids.

If you’re a school leader and haven’t read this yet – what are you waiting for? Ofsted won’t wait. But Paul Garvey will help you win.