A new Director of Education has taken up his post in the Diocese of Hereford.

Tony Leach has wide experience in education as an RE teacher, as headteacher of two large comprehensives and an independent all age school, and as an Educational Consultant. He comes to the area from Kent.

Welcoming his appointment, the Chair of Hereford Diocesan Board of Education, the Rev Bob King, said he was delighted that Tony Leach accepted the appointment.

“His experience, gravitas and Christian commitment are second to none and can only strengthen the work that we do. And he’s also a really good bloke!”

The Diocese of Hereford has 81 primary schools, two secondary schools and an academy across Herefordshire, South Shropshire and parts of Wales and Worcestershire. The role of director also includes responsibility for youth work and children’s work within the diocese.

Mr Leach said he was very excited about the post and the fresh direction he was taking.

“I relish the new challenge of this vital work for the diocese. I hope that my wide experience, which apart from teaching, includes curriculum development, pastoral care and financial management will bring something extra to the job.”

Since ‘retiring’ from schools in 2003, Mr Leach has been involved in a range of work including the setting up of an academy in London, advising small Christian schools in South London and acting as educational adviser to the Christian charity CARE.

His appointment has been welcomed by both major education authorities covered by the Diocese of Hereford.

Liz Nicholson, Director of Children and Young People’s Services in Shropshire said; “I am delighted that Tony has been appointed, he is an experienced and valued colleague within education and I look forward to working with him to continue to improve the high quality of education provision within Shropshire.”

Her views were echoed by Sharon Menghini on behalf of Herefordshire Council.

“We welcome the appointment of Tony Leach as the new Director of Education for the Herefordshire Diocese," she said. "We look forward to working closely with Tony and his colleagues at the diocese, building on existing relationships and making sure the county's children continue to receive good quality services and high standards of education."