Is it fair for Ofsted to criticise schools for government funding cuts?

Analysis: As heads are accused of not examining the impact on pupils, Eleanor Busby looks at whether they should be held accountable

Headteachers march on Downing Street to demand extra cash for schools in September last year (PA)

Headteachers have been waiting for Ofsted to acknowledge the impact of the funding crisis on schools for years. The watchdog avoided speaking out on the divisive topic until it had clear evidence.

But now the chief inspector has broken her silence on the funding pressures facing schools. Amanda Spielman has said Ofsted found most schools have made cuts in teacher numbers amid tighter budgets.

However, the schools’ watchdog has hit out at headteachers for adopting cost-saving measures without looking at the impact on the curriculum and on pupils, especially those with special educational needs.