John Prior

I believe in the strong capacity the academy sector has to promote transformation within a framework of ‘high accountability, high support’. I am motivated to play an active role in the agenda for change, ensuring that innovation is matched by sustainability and by working in partnership. A particular driver is to strengthen the voice of learners with SEND and the most vulnerable.

Prior to becoming CEO for OHCAT, a large and diverse specialist MAT (including Free Schools), I led two schools as Headteacher; the first - a Local Authority provision - secured an ‘outstanding’ judgement and the second moved from a pre-conversion ‘inadequate’ judgement to ‘good’ during the seventh term post-conversion. OHCAT is sponsored by Orchard Hill College, an ‘outstanding’ pan-London provider for students aged 16-25 who have a range of complex needs, of which I am also CEO. This enables me to have a strong grasp of transitions, meaningful destinations and the interface between the school and FE sectors.

I sit on the National Teacher Accreditation’s Appropriate Body Panel, am a member of London Councils’ Young People's Education and Skills Board, am a LA governor for a maintained Surrey school and hold the PQSI, having previously undertaken Ofsted inspections.