By Richard Johnstone | 31 July 2014
A trustee of a chain of academy schools has been appointed as the new chair of Ofsted by education secretary Nicky Morgan in her first major appointment since taking up the post earlier this month.
David Hoare, a businessman who is a trustee at the Academies Enterprise Trust group of schools, will take over from Baroness Sally Morgan after former education secretary Michael Gove decided not to re-appoint her.
Hoare, who will take up his post in September, would provide leadership and governance crucial to the watchdog during a significant period of change and reform, Morgan said.
‘He is also passionate about education and his work with academies across the country shows he shares my commitment to ever higher standards in our schools, for all children but particularly the most disadvantaged,’ she added.
‘I am confident that his strong track record in business and the passion he demonstrated throughout the interview process will be of huge benefit to Ofsted.’
Hoare was appointed to the Academies Enterprise Trust earlier this year as part of an effort to improve standards in their schools after the performance of the chain was criticised. However, he is stepping down from the role following his appointment
He said he was looking forward to working with chief inspector of schools Sir Michael Wilshaw to raise quality in children’s services and standards in our schools and colleges.
‘Ofsted has a key role helping to improve the leadership of our schools and the performance of our pupils. I look forward to being part of the team.’
The National Union of Teachers said Hoare’s role with the Academies Enterprise Trust meant teachers would view the appointment as evidence of the politicisation of school inspection.
Deputy general secretary Kevin Courtney warned this could further widen the credibility gap between Ofsted and schools.
‘The new chair will need to demonstrate his competence to chair the school inspectorate in an impartial manner with regard to all academy and community schools,’ he added.
Mary Bousted, general secretary of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers, said Hoare was taking on a difficult role.
‘He quickly needs to address the pressure placed on teachers from the current Ofsted regime, which is in disarray with questionable quality control processes,’ she said.
‘He also needs to remember that schools are not businesses, and shouldn’t become businesses. We hope Mr Hoare will meet soon with teacher union representatives to talk about the urgent reform of Ofsted.’
