Colchester Royal Grammar School head slams 'political' Ofsted

It follows a leaked recording obtained by the BBC of John Russell, of Colchester Royal Grammar School, making controversial comments during an assembly.

In a statement, the school said it regretted some of the language used and Mr Russell admitted he could not deny what had been said.

The school had faced accusations of “toxic rape culture” from ex-pupil Scarlett Mansfield, who left the high-flying school in 2011 and accused it of overlooking a culture of sexism.

Allegations - Scarlett Mansfield (Image: Newsquest)

Following a safeguarding complaint, Ofsted made an unannounced visit to the school last May and highlighted concerns in a report published in July.

It concluded a “significant number of pupils feel uncomfortable or unsafe in school” and highlighted “insulting and damaging comments regarding their gender, appearance, race or sexual orientation”.

As a result, the school was rated inadequate.

Read more: Top grammar school in centre of fresh abuse claims

But, during a presentation to pupils, Mr Russell accused Ofsted’s inspection of being “political” and said the inspector had “preconceptions” when they visited, according to the BBC.

“They did come to this school with an agenda, which means a preconception,” he added.

Leak - John Russell

Mr Russell also referred to “an attack on this particular school by a former pupil”, despite having previously said he was “shocked and saddened” by the reports.

Read more: School's response in full following allegations about 'toxic male culture'

In response to Mr Russell’s comments, Ofsted said its last inspection “speaks for itself”.

Colchester Royal Grammar School chairwoman of governors Janet Perry said: “Our school has worked tirelessly to address the issues raised in our Ofsted inspection last year.

“We have not shied away from what the inspection team found, and we have acted upon all of their findings.

“That being said, in our communications at the time of the inspection we noted we did not feel all of the strengths of our school were fully recognised.

“It is with regret this frustration was apparent in some of the language used in an assembly, and this not reflective of the approach we have all taken, including the headmaster, since the original inspection took place.”