Lee Owston is one of His Majesty’s Inspectors (HMI) and the acting National Director, Education. He oversees Ofsted’s inspection policy for early education, state-funded schools, non-association independent schools, unregistered schools, further education and skills, teacher development and Area SEND, including alternative provision. Lee is also responsible for Ofsted’s curriculum unit, leading the work to publish our subject research reports and associated inspector training.

Lee is a qualified teacher and holds post-graduate qualifications in educational leadership and management. Before joining Ofsted, he held senior leadership positions in schools, local authorities and national organisations. He has worked as an adviser for the Department of Education contributing to national publications on English, phonics and assessment and as an early years and primary adviser in a local authority.