28th November 2025
News from the National Society for Education
The Revd Canon Nigel Genders will step down as the Church of England’s Chief Education Officer and Chief Executive of the National Society for Education in the new year, after more than ten years in the role.
He will take up a new role as the Government’s Chief Schools Adjudicator in February.
Nigel has led the National Society for Education (NSE) since 2014, overseeing its work with over 4,700 Church schools educating more than one million children. Under his leadership, the Church has renewed its Vision for Education – Deeply Christian, Serving the Common Good – and expanded its engagement with the sector.
Nigel’s tenure has seen significant growth in the NSE’s work. This includes the introduction of a Church-led programme of National Professional Qualifications (NPQs), a revised framework for the Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) and strengthening relationships between schools, their local communities, parish churches and households. In recognition of his contribution, Nigel was awarded a CBE in the King’s Birthday Honours in 2023.
Andy Wolfe, Executive Director of Education, will lead the NSE as Interim Chief Executive and Chief Education Officer during the period of vacancy following Nigel’s departure.
Leaders Like Us 2026/27 – Now Open for Applications from UKME/GMH Teachers and Aspiring Leaders
Please do pass on to colleagues and contacts for whom this might be great opportunity. This is open to all teachers, not just those in CofE schools.
More information and application form here.
If you feel you could be mentor for this programme do see more information here.
Salt and Light – Senior Leaders’ Retreat – 24-26 March 2026
How long is it since you took time away, to nourish your inner self?
To reconnect with your purpose and emerge ready for the next phase of your leadership journey?
Coventry DBE’s mission is to inspire schools to demonstrate the love of Christ as they educate for life in all its fullness, and we are inviting you to participate in one of our “Salt and Light Retreats”. It’s a chance to reflect and rest, immersed in the majesty of nature, in the unique setting of a lighthouse on the Welsh coast.
Coventry DBE’s mission is to inspire schools to demonstrate the love of Christ as they educate for life in all its fullness, and we are inviting you to participate in one of our “Salt and Light Retreats”. It’s a chance to reflect and rest, immersed in the majesty of nature, in the unique setting of a lighthouse on the Welsh coast.
A 48-hour retreat in an unplugged space, in an area of natural beauty on the Welsh coast, you can join with a small group of other leaders to be nourished and envisioned. Alongside 6-8 other leaders, you will be treated to wholesome, plentiful meals. There will be lightly facilitated sessions to help you flourish as a CofE school leader.
Whether you have a Christian faith, a different faith or none, you will be given opportunity to reflect and connect. Using some principles from coaching and culture-building programmes our facilitator will help you get the most out of this time; and, of course, if you fancy exploring the stunning coastline, taking a dip in the sea or gazing at the sea and stars they can show you the way.
Find out more here. Register your interest here.
CPD Coming Up in the Spring Term
PEAK Human – Recording and material released after 07.01.26
Written by Jen Jenkins, this is a set of collective worship resources that feeds into courageous advocacy:
P- Passion; E- Empathy; A- Action; K- Kindness
The pre-recorded introduction explains how you might use it in your school and make the connections between courageous advocacy and your own curriculum in school. Book to receive the resources here.
Heads’ Termly Briefing – 20.01.25 – 14.00-15.30
This DBE briefing will include key updates for church school leaders as well as input for best practice from external speakers and Diocesan Headteacher colleagues. Full agenda available soon. Book here to attend or receive the recording.
SIAMS Termly Online Update – 02.03.26 – 16.30 – 17.30
Led by Jen Jenkins, these termly sessions will support those schools due for inspection within the next two academic years. Book her to attend or receive the recording.
Headteacher Wellbeing Lunch – 05.03.26 – from 10.30 – lunch
Facilitated by the DBE and a Diocesan Headteacher, share safe space, structured wellbeing activity and delicious food with fellow Headteachers.
Previous comments from this month’s lunch were:
“A much needed safe space in which to talk, listen and reflect. A wonderful venue, inspiring activities, opportunities to connect with new colleagues and of course…delicious food!”
“The wellbeing retreat day was a restorative and inspiring experience that struck the perfect balance between reflection, connection, and rest. The day offered a rare chance to step back from daily routines, reflect on personal and professional wellbeing, and return feeling grounded, re-energised, and with a renewed sense of clarity.”
Book here. (Previous participants need to re-book we’ll be in touch!)
Getting Ready for SIAMS – An Introductory Overview – Recording
Part 1 – released 16.03.25 – Part 2 – released 23.03.25
Delivered by Jen Jenkins, DBE RE and Spirituality Officer, these pre-recorded sessions will give delegates an introductory overview of SIAMS. Suitable for school staff and governors who are unfamiliar with the SIAMS process and principals. Book here to receive the recordings.
Message from Diana Osagie – Courageous Leadership – Following her Amazing Keynote at our Conference
Dear colleagues…
This will be the biggest conference I have done to date especially for leaders in education –
- 350 delegates
- 26 exhibitors
- 10 seminars
- 8 large hampers to win
- 2 keynotes
1 mission – to bring middle and senior leaders in schools into a powerful alliance with new modes of thinking, new products for your personal and professional life and a new level of momentum for your calling of leadership.
All the information on the event is here and download a PDF here of more details of the sessions and what to expect.
Let me give you something else, use the code SCHOOLS at the checkout to and you will receive the very special school discount of £40 off per ticket when you purchase 5 or more, making them £119 each instead of £159.
(For 5 or less .use the code COURAGE15 for a discount) If you prefer to purchase via invoice , please email Abbie on contact@courageousleadership.co.uk with your request
For the full Headlines newsletter contact joanne.evans@coventrydbe.org