Worry as region tops table of failing schools

It raises concerns that pressure on children’s social services has not abated, with rises in the numbers of youngsters in care, and those under protection plans.

Ofsted said that in inspections of each of the inadequate authorities, inspectors had seen delays in helping children and families.

Nine authorities inspected this year were failing to keep children including Calderdale according to inspectors. Acting chief inspector Miriam Rosen said: “Given that they are providing care for the most vulnerable children of all, this is not good enough.”

The report says the figures are a “serious concern”.