How do I become a lay inspector for Estyn?

In 1992, members of the general public became an integral part of the school inspection process. These members became known as lay inspectors. Lay inspectors are expected to provide an objective and impartial assessment on the provision of education, reporting honestly and fairly, whilst always acting in the best interests of learners. Legally, they must not have been employed in the management of a school or the provision of education within a school. They can, however, have acted in a voluntary capacity or as a governor.

This month, Estyn, the education and training inspectorate for Wales launches a new recruitment campaign for lay inspectors. Over the next two months, the inspectorate is hoping to attract around 30 talented people to work with school inspection teams on the inspection of primary, secondary and special schools across Wales. Alun Morgan, Her Majesty’s Inspector, who is responsible for leading on this recruitment campaign said,

“This is a unique and challenging role for the right candidates. Working as a lay inspector is a great opportunity to get involved helping to improve the quality of education in schools.”

“We are looking for candidates who have excellent communication and inter-personal skills, and who are able to work under pressure and bring a fresh perspective to the provision of education.”

Daniel Smith* from North Wales is a managing director of a small company. He has been working as a lay inspector since 1994 and has participated in over 200 inspections in both primary and secondary schools throughout Wales. Daniel said

“As a father of two and former chair of governors, I am strongly aware of the importance of education in the lives of young people. I wanted to play an active role in helping to improve teaching and learning in Wales.”

“I have been fortunate that my ‘dayjob’ has allowed me the flexibility to train and participate in school inspections. I am notified well in advance about a possible school inspection so I am able to manage my business and workload. Being a lay inspector has been both personally and professionally fulfilling and I looking for a new challenge.”

A lay inspector is on-site for usually one day. Their role is primarily to provide impartial advice and give a fresh perspective on the provision of education. Some of the issues they will be asked to focus on include aspects such as attendance, behaviour and the quality of school buildings and resources.

Interested applicants can download the application pack from the Estyn website add in link. Once completed applications have been assessed, chosen applicants will be invited to attend a three day training course in St Asaph, North Wales from 14 -16 July. If they successfully complete this course they will then be asked to register with Estyn as a lay inspector.

Once they are placed on the list of lay inspectors candidates will be eligible for work and will be invited to tender by external contractors to assist on inspection of primary, secondary and special schools across Wales.

For further information please visit our website www.estyn.gov.uk

*The names have been changed to protect the anonimity of the inspectors