Ofsted’s approach

SIR – I agree with Geoff Barton, of the Association of School and College Leaders, that Ofsted inspections need to become “less punitive and more supportive” (report, March 23).

In the Army, my team and I conducted several audits designed to ensure that commanding officers were managing their units effectively. This was certainly no punitive expedition – indeed, an unsatisfactory outcome would be viewed not only as a failure on the part of the unit, but also on the part of my team.

Playing safe and passing a unit regardless was never an option, as it could have serious consequences. Our approach was therefore to partner with the unit, conduct pre-inspections, respond to calls for advice and generally share the burden. This may have been more resource-intensive, but it also ensured that the process was more constructive.

Lt Col Lyndon Robinson (retd)

Mursley, Buckinghamshire

SIR – Ofsted would be the first to criticise teachers and schools that encouraged pupils to give single-word answers to complicated and sensitive questions (report, March 24).

Chris Gillibrand

Swainby, North Yorkshire