THPT chair awarded MBE in King’s birthday honours

Ian Wilson recognised for services to education

Ian Wilson, Chair of The Howard Partnership Trust, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s birthday honours list in recognition of his services to education.

Ian has been an instrumental part of the Trust’s development.  His leadership, experience and expertise have helped shape our direction and made a huge difference to young people across Surrey. 

Ian’s association with the Trust is longstanding.  He was involved at the inception of the Partnership, when he was asked to chair the Interim Academy Board of Rydens School one of the schools which, together with Howard of Effingham, formed the first federation in Surrey. He became a THPT Trustee in 2017, assuming the role of Chair shortly afterwards.

Ian has enjoyed a distinguished career in education.  He served as headteacher of Woodcote School in Croydon in the 1990s.  In that role, he introduced initiatives that helped reduce the attainment gap between boys and girls.  In 1999, Ian took up the headship at Rydens School where he led the school to acquiring Business and Enterprise status. 

In 2004, Ian was appointed as Principal Consultant for Secondary Education with Surrey County Council.  Formerly a member of the Education Committee of the Royal Society, Ian is currently a National Governance Association (NGA) consultant and Fellow of the Royal Statistical Society.

Highly experienced in supporting and challenging secondary and primary schools, ranging from those with outstanding practice to those causing concern, Ian has carried out many reviews of leadership and of teaching in both phases.

“I had just got back from shopping when I received a very official-looking envelope with a crest,” said Ian, reflecting on the moment he learnt about his honour.  “At first, I thought it was a tax bill.  After I opened it, I assumed it was a practical joke.

“Education is my life-long passion and I have enjoyed my work immensely.   It’s humbling to have my efforts acknowledged.  But this honour also recognises the work of The Howard Partnership Trust.  In one form or another, I have worked with THPT for many years.  Its commitment to inclusion chimes perfectly with my belief that no child should be turned away.  I am particularly proud of what we continue to achieve together, particularly in creating truly inclusive schools where absolutely everyone is welcome.”

Louise Lee, CEO of THPT, said: “Ian’s leadership of the trust has taken us to new levels of success.  His commitment to ensuring each child receives the best-possible education is inspiring and unrelenting.  I know the whole Howard family joins me in congratulating Ian on his MBE.”