A FORMER headteacher at Ysgol Morgan Llwyd in Wrexham has been appointed as the first chief executive of a new body tasked with inspiring educational leaders of the future.

Huw Foster Evans will head up the National Academy for Educational Leadership to provide strategic support for those in current leadership roles as well as providing encouragement and inspiration for those who wish to pursue a leadership career in education.

Mr Evans spoke of his new role, saying: “I believe this is a hugely important step for education in Wales as it recognises the crucial role leaders play in delivering the reform we want within the educational sector. While appreciating the need to nurture future leaders it is also vital that we provide appropriate support for those delivering leadership roles at present, in what can only be described as very challenging times.

“That is why key stakeholders, including school leaders, have been closely involved in developing this Academy and this model will continue for the foreseeable future as the work programme is rolled out. I very much look forward to working with the sector as we deliver the latest phase in Wales’s ambitious and aspirational educational reform.”

Cabinet Secretary for Education, Kirsty Williams AM, spoke of the need for strong leaders, saying: “It is crucial that we develop leaders who can inspire, not only our young people, but also their colleagues so we can work collaboratively to raise standards.

“The academy will play a vital role in developing the current and future leadership talent for Wales and ensure all schools can deliver our new curriculum.

“Huw’s appointment as Chief Executive ensures that the latest step in our national mission to deliver an education system that is a source of national pride and public confidence will be taken forward by someone who has a deep understanding of the sector and a comprehensive appreciation of its needs. I wish him well in the new role.”