A new permanent Director of Education for Reading has been appointed by Brighter Futures for Children (BFfC).
Brian Grady, whose hometown is Reading, will bring with him 20 years of public service experience when he joins BFfC from the London Borough of Brent on 1 May.
Mr Grady has held leadership roles with responsibility for improving educational outcomes across early years, primary and secondary schools in a county, unitary authority and London borough. Most recently he has been Operational Director for Safeguarding, Partnerships and Strategy in Brent.
Achievements include delivering 32 children’s centres across a county, establishing new primary and secondary provision rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted and overseeing programmes to improve attainment for disadvantaged groups.
Mr Grady said: “Reading is a special place. We have all the ingredients for every Reading child and young person to thrive and succeed.
“As a local resident I see excellence in our local education system, but I also know that not every Reading child benefits from all of the opportunities we have on offer.
“I am looking forward to working with schools and partners across the borough, with the aim of creating a truly outstanding education system that benefits all children and young people in Reading.”
Di Smith, Board Chair of Brighter Futures for Children, said: “I am delighted to be welcoming Brian to Brighter Futures for Children as our permanent Director of Education.
“He comes with an impressive record of achievements and a vast amount of experience which I know will be a huge benefit to Reading.
“Brian has high ambitions for education in Reading and is passionate about giving all children and young people in the town the chance to flourish and enjoy a bright future.”
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Sue Imbriano for her work as Interim Director of Education over the last six months.”