John Abbott

I wish to join the Advisory Board to further the work of colleagues in ensuring all children and young people receive the very best quality of education possible. I believe the core principles of academisation, particularly the collective benefits of genuine collaboration, partnership and support can have a profound long-lasting positive impact on the provision and outcomes of education.

I have worked in education for 30 years, with over 20 years’ experience of delivering education in the South West. I have worked within and across all phases of education but was privileged to be Principal and CEO of Richard Huish College from 2013 to 2020. Since then, partly because of Richard Huish College re-designating as a 16-19 Academy and partly because of the growth of Richard Huish Trust I have been full time CEO across Huish.

This broad and deep experience has given me a detailed understanding of differing challenges faced by children and young people across the South West and how education can best address those challenges.

In my commitment to public service, I continue to hold numerous voluntary board positions. This is driven by a deep desire and passion to improve life chances and social mobility for all.