William Eichler 23 August 2016

Ofsted chairman quits over ‘offensive’ remarks

The Ofsted chairman has quit his position after describing the Isle of Wight as an ‘inbred, poor, white ghetto’.

Sir Hoare made the comments earlier in the month and retracted them soon after while offering an ‘unreserved apology’ to the island and the council leader Jonathan Bacon.

‘I understand that some of my specific comments were offensive as well as being unfounded. For this I am truly sorry,’ he said.

The former chairman claimed he was attempting to ‘highlight the problem of poor educational outcomes’ in coastal communities, particularly among low-income white British children.

Responding to the news, Cllr Bacon said he had organised a visit to the Isle of Wight for Sir Hoare ‘in order to better understand, recognise and acknowledge’ the issues facing the island.

He extended the invitation to Sir Hoare’s successor.

‘I look forward to hosting them as soon as possible so that we can continue our collective ambition to drive up standards and work constructively together for the benefit of Island children,’ he said.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Transport and Major Work Manager

Slough Borough Council
£54,556 to £60,085 per year Inclusive of Local Weighting Allowance of £1096
Drive the future of transport and infrastructure in Slough Slough, Berkshire
Recuriter: Slough Borough Council

Leaving Care Case Worker

North Yorkshire Council
£34,434 to £38,220 per annum
Are you passionate about supporting care experienced young people? Scarborough, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Head of Safeguarding and Prevention

Wiltshire Council
£73,757-£78,488
Wiltshire is a place where strong communities, shared ambition, and a sense of place come together.  Wiltshire
Recuriter: Wiltshire Council

Chief Finance Officer (S151)

Wiltshire Council
£146,576 - £156,434
Wiltshire is a county like no other, stunning countryside, vibrant market towns and deep-rooted heritage, it offers an exceptional quality of life. Wiltshire
Recuriter: Wiltshire Council

Trading Standards Officer

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Up to £44937 per annum
Protect residents, support businesses and help create a fairer, safer borough. As a Trading Standards Officer at the Royal Borough of Kensington and England, London, City of London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Linkedin Banner