Decisions taken in the town hall affect the quality of schools and Ofsted intend to vet the corporate arrangement for driving school improvement.

Inspectors will be assessing how well local authorities carry out their statutory duties in promoting high standards in schools and among other providers so that children achieve well and fulfil their potential.

Inspection will not be universal. Ofsted will inspect only where concerns about performances are apparent or where requested to do so by the Secretary of State.

The outcome of the inspection will be presented as a summary judgement highlighting strengths and weaknesses. The four-point grading used for assessing schools will not be used.

The first inspections under the new framework are expected to take place from next month and councils will be given up to five days’ notice of an inspection.