OFSTED’S National Director of Inspection Reform is set to play a key role in the future of Knutsford Multi-Academy Trust.

Mike Cladingbowl will leave his post at Ofsted to take up the position of Executive Principal of Knutsford Multi-Academy Trust in January 2015.

Mike, who has strategic and operational responsibility for reforming the inspection of schools, colleges, independent schools and early years in England, is known nationally for his senior role in Ofsted and has worked with the most senior figures in English education.

Before joining Ofsted in 2002, Mike was head teacher at a variety of schools in the North West, including Cheshire, and said he is excited by the prospect of returning to school leadership.

He said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my national role with Ofsted and being able to make a real difference to the education in England but I’m also very excited and pleased to be returning to my roots in Cheshire and taking on the privilege of direct school leadership again.

“The school, the college and The Studio are exactly the sort of schools that I would want my own children to attend.

“It’s a very exciting time for the trust and I am thrilled to be its new Executive Principal.”