Since its inception in 1993, Ofsted has been charged with maintaining standards in schools in England. But how has this worked out? A former inspector gives his account of the journey from the inside. His point of view can be summarised from a conversation he had with a senior Ofsted inspector on his first Inspection: 'You're still on their side. The side of the teachers.' 'No. I'm not and I'm not on your side either. (Pointing to the pupils.) I'm on their side'.