MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sir Ian Bauckham named as permanent Chief Regulator of Ofqual

The Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has today (7 February 2025) announced the appointment of Sir Ian Bauckham CBE as Chief Regulator of Ofqual .  

The privy council has confirmed his appointment through an order in council, after a thorough recruitment process conducted in line with the requirements set by the commissioner for public appointments. 

Sir Ian will start the permanent five-year position after serving as interim Chief Regulator since 1st Jan 2024.  

Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson said:    

This government is committed to high and rising standards and fair assessments are crucial to this, opening the door to opportunity for children and young people and breaking the link between background and success. 

With his vast expertise in education, Sir Ian is exceptionally suited to lead Ofqual in maintaining a system that provides all young people with high-quality, rigorous qualifications and training, equipping them with the skills needed to succeed.

Appointed Chief Regulator, Sir Ian Bauckham CBE said:    

I’m honoured to take on this permanent role, after dedicating my career to improving education and opportunities for young people. 

Qualifications are the currency of education. Ofqual, as guardian of standards, will protect their value and integrity to ensure they remain trusted by students, teachers, universities and employers alike. 

Only through rigorous assessment and stable qualifications can we measure education performance and highlight areas where we can improve opportunities for all students.

Ofqual is the independent body responsible for regulating qualifications, exams, and assessments in England. It plays a crucial role in maintaining standards and public trust in GCSEs, A levels, and vocational and technical qualifications. 

The Chief Regulator’s key responsibility is to ensure that Ofqual meets its statutory objectives and duties, including upholding standards and fostering confidence in qualifications and assessments. 

Knighted in January 2023 for his services to education, Sir Ian has been a member of the Ofqual Board since 2018. He served as Chair from January 2021 until January 2024, when he became the interim Chief Regulator. Previously, he was the Chief Executive Officer of the Tenax Schools Academy Trust, a position he stepped down from to assume his current role. Since 2020, Sir Ian has also chaired the board of Oak National Academy.