Education Secretary appoints Gilbert as next chair of Ofsted

The Department for Education said Dame Christine “brings with her a wealth of knowledge of the organisation and the areas which it inspects and regulates”.

She also serves as the chair and trustee of the Education Endowment Foundation, independent chair and director of Camden Learning, and joint chair of Association of Area-based Education Partnerships (AEPA). 

She will replace Sir Hamid Patel, who is currently interim chair, and will take up her new role at Ofsted from 1 September 2025. 

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “Effective school accountability, with a strong inspectorate, is central to our plans to raise standards and deliver excellence everywhere for every child, and Dame Christine Gilbert will bring a wealth of experience, knowledge and skills as Ofsted’s new chair.

“Dame Christine will play a full part in ensuring the successful delivery of Ofsted reforms by bringing the strong challenge and support that all organisations need.”

Dame Christine Gilbert said: “It’s a privilege to accept this appointment as chair of Ofsted. I’m very much looking forward to supporting Sir Martyn and Ofsted in their determination to raise standards, increase opportunities and improve lives.”