OFSTED inspections will be on hold until later in the month, it was announced today, prompting unions to insist the pause should start a much needed root-and-branch reform of school inspection.

The body’s new chief inspector Sir Martyn Oliver said the pause will take place to ensure inspectors receive mental health awareness training.

It comes after senior coroner Heidi Connor concluded last month that an Ofsted inspection “likely” contributed to the death of headteacher Ruth Perry.