I read Andy Connell's Podium piece ('Does Ofsted really drive up standards in schools', June 17) with great interest.

I agree that Cumbrian parents do indeed have high aspirations for their children. These expectations are well served by the 89 per cent of schools in the county that are good or outstanding, which is higher than the national figure of 88 per cent.

The education landscape has changed, with many different types of schools now available. As a result, local accountability and context are even more important now than they have ever been.

That is why Ofsted has eight regional offices spread across England. Because we understand the importance of local knowledge when inspecting schools.

The neighbouring boroughs, rural areas, towns and even individual streets around a school can have a big impact on its performance. So when we inspect a school, we take into account the local community and the range of backgrounds among the children that go there. Our inspection reports reflect this.

Ofsted’s aim is to ensure schools are accountable to parents and to the children they teach. Our inspections hold up a mirror to a school’s quality, reporting what it does well and where it needs to improve.

We make no apology for shining the spotlight on schools where children are not getting the education they deserve. Children need to achieve good exam results if they are to secure a better future.

But we also praise schools that are doing well by their pupils. Earlier this month, Richard Rose Central Academy in Carlisle came out of special measures and is now judged good. This was a struggling school, but because of the hard work and determination of leaders and teachers, it has turned itself around.

As a force for improvement, Ofsted’s role is to help schools to improve through inspection and feedback. Our job is not just about making a judgement and walking away. We provide everyone working in education with evidence and knowledge to help improve standards.

Of course, its school leaders and teachers are the ones working hard to give pupils a good education. And the high number of children going to good or better schools in Cumbria is proof of the commitment of headteachers and teachers in the county.

But it also reflects an inspection system that has a relentless focus on ensuring all schools serve their children well.

Andrew Cook

Regional Director for the North West, Ofsted