The chief inspector of the Independent Schools Inspectorate,  Kate Richards, is standing down from her role after the inspection body said it had “reflected on the impact of Covid-19 on our sector and the suspension of routine inspections by the government”.

It said the “hiatus” in activity had led it to review its leadership structure, after its chief executive stepped down in March this year.

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“As a result, we have decided to appoint to a new role, which will combine key elements of the existing chief inspector and chief executive responsibilities,” the statement said.

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“The new postholder will provide overall leadership and direction to the organisation, including the delivery of inspections in England and internationally, and provide a single point of focus between the recently restructured independent board and the organisation.”

In light of the changes, the ISI said that Kate Richards would be stepping down from her role as chief inspector.

“Kate has built strong relationships with all our key stakeholders and has been a visible presence at conferences. She has brought a deep passion for listening to the voice of the child to ISI’s inspection practice, and her leadership of inspectors and inspection has been highly valued by all who have worked with her,” the ISI said.

Prior to joining ISI, Ms Richards had worked in a range of schools and trusts.