Commentary Part 1: School Inspections and Other Inspections by School Inspectors Chapter 3 – School Inspectors and School Inspections: Wales Section 19 and Schedule 2: Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Education and Training in Wales
53.This section and Schedule re-enact section 4 of, and Schedule 1 to, SIA 1996 and make provision for the appointment of Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector for Education and Training in Wales (the Chief Inspector) and for the appointment of HMI in Wales. Section 19 also sets out that the Chief Inspector may not be appointed for a term of more than five years, though a previous post holder is not barred from reappointment.
54.New provision is made in subsections (6) and (7). Subsection (6) provides that where it considers that powers under subsections (1), (2) and (4)(c) should be exercised, the Assembly has a duty to give advice to the Secretary of State on a recommendation to Her Majesty on the appointment of the Chief Inspector or of HMI, or on removal of the Chief Inspector from office on grounds of incapacity or misconduct. At present there is no statutory requirement on any person to provide such advice, but as a matter of constitutional convention any recommendation is made by the Secretary of State. In practice any such recommendation is made relying upon advice from the Assembly’s First Minister. This practice is now reflected in this section.
55.Subsection (7) provides that it is for the Chief Inspector to determine the terms and conditions of appointment of Her Majesty’s Inspectors, subject to the approval of the Assembly. This brings the position of the Assembly in relation to HMI in Wales into line with its position in relation to the Chief Inspector’s other staff.