Summary of the Inspection Report

Director of Education, Arts and Libraries

The former Director of Education, Arts and Libraries, Alan Larbalestier, said:

"Barking and Dagenham is committed to providing its pupils with a great start in life by enabling them to develop their skills and knowledge. This report is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of everyone who has contributed to that goal."

"We are extremely pleased that our many strengths have been recognised by Ofsted and that the Education Service has received the praise it deserves."

"However we will not become complacent. While there are some weaknesses, we had already identified these and improvements have begun. It is also encouraging that Ofsted is confident in the council's ability to continue to improve."