National Society news

Chief Education Officer to step down after a decade’s service

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.

Nigel’s career in education spans more than 30 years of ordained ministry, including roles as a parish priest, school chaplain, university governor, and Director of Education for the Diocese of Canterbury. He was made a Canon of Canterbury Cathedral in 2020.

Nigel Genders said: “It has been a profound privilege to serve the Church’s ministry in education alongside such a capable and dedicated team. I have been continually inspired by the passion and dedication of educators, leaders, and diocesan teams who work tirelessly to shape lives and communities. I look forward to continuing to serve education in a new capacity, supporting fairness and integrity across the school system.”

The Bishop of Portsmouth, Jonathan Frost, who chairs the NSE, said: “Nigel Genders has offered exceptional, enabling, and inspirational leadership in a vital area of national life. He has overseen the renewal of the Church of England’s vision for education, a vision which places human flourishing at its heart. One of many ways the Church of England serves the common life of our nation is through its network of schools, colleges and academies; Nigel leaves a solid foundation for the Church’s work in the future. The Governing Council of the National Society for Education gives thanks for Nigel’s leadership and is wholly resolved to build upon the foundation he has established.”

William Nye, Secretary General of the Archbishops’ Council, said: “Nigel has been an outstanding servant of the Church and leader in its work with children and young people.  He has transformed the National Society in his time as Chief Executive; and he has been a terrific colleague as a Chief Officer in the National Church institutions.  We will all miss him.”

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. 

Commenting on the interim appointment, Bishop Jonathan added: “As Executive Director, and Nigel’s deputy, Andy Wolfe is well placed to lead the NSE during this period. He brings rich experience and trusted leadership to guide our work until a substantive appointment is made.”

 A timetable for recruitment will be announced in due course.

25th November 2025