Alan Wood The view from the peloton
PRESENTED BY HACKNEY LEARNING TRUST ON THURSDAY 28 JANUARY 2016
Alan Wood The view from the peloton
PRESENTED BY HACKNEY LEARNING TRUST ON THURSDAY 28 JANUARY 2016
Published by Hackney Learning Trust www.learningtrust.co.uk Hackney Learning Trust 1 Reading Lane, London E8 1GQ Tel: 020 8820 7000 Editor: Neil Weeks Designer: Joel Quartey Printer: Radclyffe Culros & Sproston Ltd, London Š Copyright 2016 Hackney Learning Trust, All rights reserved The facts set out in this publication are from sources which we believe to be reliable. However, we accept no legal liability of any kind for the publication contents, nor from the information contained therein, nor conclusions drawn by any party from it. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, electrical, chemical, optical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner.
Contents
Foreword By Sir Mike Tomlinson CBE
vii
Introduction By Neil Weeks
1
Recollections 5 Aneurin Wood
7
Jules Pipe
9
Heather Rockhold
11
Karen Coulthard
13
Cheryl Day
15
Kevin McDonnell
17
Christopher Everett
19
Lesley Staggs
21
Tim Shields
23
An ode to Alan Wood CBE
25
Ian Peacock
27
Rita Krishna
29
Simon Bird
31
Leroy Logan MBE
33
Colleen Amos
35
Richard and Pam Parkes (nee Case)
37
Olly Cochrane
39
Jackie Moylan
41
Frank O’Donoghue
43
Andrew Lee
45
Martin Buck
47
Hilary Ryan
49
Mark Brownlow
51
Hilary Smith
53
Tamara Al-Na’ama
55
Julian Le Grand
57
Afterword By Richard Hardie
59
Recollections  VII
Foreword Sir Mike Tomlinson CBE Chair of The Learning Trust 2002–2007
In the world of education there are many special and inspirational people, and I have been fortunate to have got to know and work with some of them over the last 50+ years. Even amongst such a group of people there are a few who, for various reasons, stand out. Alan Wood is one such person. Though I had heard of Alan previously it was not until 2002 that we began to work together to establish The Learning Trust and have it improve the education provision for Hackney`s young people and adults. Alan has many strengths but above all he has a strong moral purpose underpinning all he does. That is to seek to have every young person receive a high quality education, thus giving them every opportunity to be successful individuals and effective citizens. This has never waivered, nor has he allowed it to be compromised when making decisions. While he has always championed this goal most strongly for those young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, those with special needs and looked after children, this has never been at the expense of the rest. I have witnessed his passion when any young person is being denied a good education. While modest and self-effacing, Alan has a steely determination which has ensured he never shirks from making difficult decisions. At the same time he has been hugely supportive of everyone working at The Learning Trust and all those working in Hackney`s nurseries and schools. His capacity to analyse situations and problems is impressive to say the least, but he never stops at this point, going on to propose a range of solutions, all practical, and many innovative.
VIII  Alan Wood: the view from the peloton
These characteristics, aligned with inspirational leadership skills, have underpinned the national and international recognition his work in Hackney has been given. From being the poorest performing system in the country Hackney is now recognised as one of the highest performing ones. Alan will, with his usual modesty, give all the credit to those providing the education in the schools, the many governors, and those who support them in The Learning Trust. While this is undoubtedly true it is equally true to say that Alan has been the driving force, the inspiration and the architect of all that has been achieved. The statements which follow in this book fully support this view, and reflect the great respect in which he is held. His influence has, in recent times, been brought to bear on the wider national scene and no doubt his experience and wisdom will continue to be sought in his retirement (I hope he does a better job of retiring than I have so far managed!). It is in Hackney that his heart will forever be found. The young people of Hackney, and their parents and guardians, have much to thank Alan for. For myself, I have been hugely fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Alan and to be able to call him a friend. He is, as stated earlier, a special person.
1
Introduction Neil Weeks Hackney Learning Trust
Alan Wood has been described – by the Guardian – as ‘the go-to fixer for child protection’. Michael Gove described him as one of England’s finest directors of children’s services. Others haven’t been quite so complimentary… What is there left to say? A great deal, in fact, as the following pages demonstrate. Collected in this book are recollections and observations from a wide range of people: Alan’s colleagues and friends, those who served with him on the Board of The Learning Trust, and Hackney Council, Headteachers, and colleagues who worked with him during his time in Hackney improving education and children’s services. They provide a range of insights from different, personal perspectives. The result provides an impressionistic portrait, made up of miniatures infused with affection, respect and admiration for a man who has given a lifetime of public service. Alan’s retirement provides an opportunity to reflect on a distinguished career, which has seen him work in some of the most challenging London boroughs – Camden, Southwark, Lambeth, and Hackney – during some of the toughest times for local government, education and children’s services. As Sir Mike Tomlinson and others observe in this book, Alan has also made an increasing contribution nationally to raising the quality of children’s services, and the way in which these can be delivered most effectively. In Doncaster, Birmingham and Tower Hamlets, Alan has brought the same passion for the rights of children and young people – their right to be safe from harm, and to have the best possible education, delivered in state of the art schools, by outstanding teachers.
2 Alan Wood: the view from the peloton
To put into perspective Alan’s length of service in Hackney, there have been eight Education Secretaries and nine Local Government ministers over the same period. There have also been five Chief inspectors of schools and three chief executives of Hackney Council. That longevity has been a crucial element in the long-term, sustained improvement seen in Hackney schools and settings. The headteacher who predicted in her first meeting with Alan that he would only be in Hackney for a year could not have been more wrong! When Alan became director of education in Hackney in 2001 he was faced with multiple tests of his leadership: ■■
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The education department was demoralised and in danger of disintegrating as senior managers and staff walked off the job; The schools were disenchanted with and distrustful of the Council’s role in education, The future shape and structure of education in the borough was undecided following the unprecedented intervention by the government;
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Too few schools in the borough were providing a good education for their pupils;
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Pupil attainment in Hackney appeared riveted to the bottom of every league table.
The fact that Alan established a functioning education department that became the basis for The Learning Trust, built a durable relationship with schools and influenced the creation of The Learning Trust and negotiated the contract with the council highlights his very best qualities as a leader: ■■
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Sharp intelligence and the ability to cut through to the essentials of any issue quicker than most people; Excellent political judgement, knowing the most effective way in which to achieve what needs to be done, and the ability to persuade others that it is the right course of action; Strength of character in arguing for what he believes to be right, having the courage to take difficult decisions and championing them;
Alan Wood: the view from the peloton 3
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Inspiring other people to work towards a vision for education in Hackney where there are no excuses for children not receiving the best possible education; Intuition about the future direction of education, and how to maintain an effective role for local authorities in school improvement.
These have been the hallmarks of his time in Hackney, as director of education, chief executive of The Learning Trust and Director of Children’s Services. They have been fundamental to our success in raising pupil attainment and improving the quality of teaching in our schools. Under Alan’s leadership Hackney became one of the most improved boroughs in the country. Alan’s great achievement has been restoring public confidence in education in our Borough. As DCS he has also presided over the implementation of the Hackney Reclaiming Social Work model, which has transformed children and family social work practices. In all of the major changes Alan has led – closing failing schools like Kingsland and Homerton, opening Academies, investing in the renovation of our secondary schools through BSF and consistently raising pupil attainment and the quality of teaching – he has always been very clear – that every child in Hackney should be able to attend a school that we would be happy to send our sons and daughters to. He has eloquently championed the moral purpose of education. Alan’s retirement is also a chance to recall the qualities that made him a pleasure and an inspiration to work with. He is a true egalitarian: his irreverent sense of humour, which was tested many times and, only very occasionally, snapped; his passion for cycling and football (Chelsea and Wolves); his personal kindness and consideration and his remarkable intellect. In the words of Milton (a poet Alan has often quoted) he is ‘deep versed in books’ and these have contributed to his thinking about how to address the challenges in education and children’s services. His ability to turn ideas into action, to translate concepts to the realities of inner-city education and children’s services, is a testament to his intellect, his strength of character and the power of his commitment to children and young people.
4 Alan Wood: the view from the peloton
Throughout his career, Alan has always challenged mediocrity – he dismissed the Trust’s HR team – and championed innovative thinking. He has pioneered fresh approaches to delivering public services, contesting vested interests and championing a vision for excellence in public services. In doing so he has exercised a significant intellectual influence on policy-making at a national level. As we wish him well in his retirement – and Alan’s ‘retirement’ is likely to be much busier than a lot of peoples – we also pay tribute to his achievements and reflect that he is leaving Hackney – our young people and our schools – in an indisputably better position than they were in when he arrived in 2001. Education, and children’s services have been completely, comprehensively, transformed in Hackney (and elsewhere) and that is due to Alan’s leadership, his insight, inspiration and courage. He has been a truly great public servant. WB Yeats wrote, ‘and say my glory was I had such friends.’ In these pages we hope that, as your friends, we have captured Alan in all his glory.
Recollections
Recollections  7
Aneurin Wood Head of Policy and Programmes (Equalities and SEND) Hackney Learning Trust
My fondest memory in relation to The Learning Trust and Alan (Dad) is from the very first day of the Trust. Dad came home from work and showed me and my sister, Alys, a cheque for 1p that Sir Mike Tomlinson had made out to him. You could just see the pride, enthusiasm and determination in his eyes to ensure that the aims of The Learning Trust to improve education in Hackney for children, young people and adults, would be achieved. I am very proud of the fact that not only did the Trust improve education in Hackney, it completely revolutionised it.
He who binds to himself a joy Does the winged life destroy; But he who kisses the joy as it flies Lives in eternity’s sun rise. William Blake
Recollections 9
Jules Pipe CBE Mayor of Hackney London Borough of Hackney
Alan’s contribution to public service is long and distinguished and has been in many different guises – an elected member, an officer, the leader of a professional body, a respected commentator, a government adviser and consultant, a ministerial appointee and much more besides. Hackney has been enormously fortunate to have had the benefit of that expertise for a decade and a half – a contribution of experience and leadership that resulted in Hackney children becoming much safer and, without doubt, better educated. Alan came to run an education service but went on to lead the creation of not one but two new models of service delivery – the Hackney Learning Trust and the renewal of the borough’s social work practice – changes that have been copied or admired across the sector. I’ve valued the time that I’ve spent with Alan in innumerable meetings over the years. In our many discussions, while he would often be challenging and question assumptions, he always remained relentlessly optimistic and encouraging. Indeed, I must thank him for occasionally counselling me against my perhaps more pessimistic forecasts on a number of issues. The fact that throughout his time at Hackney he has also been a long-term resident of the borough no doubt contributes to his passion and ambition for the place; an enthusiasm clearly fuelled by his personal values.
10 Alan Wood: the view from the peloton
Alan’s contribution to rehabilitating children’s services has undoubtedly been a vital ingredient in the transformation of the external reputation of the borough, earning the authority valuable respect from peers, government and many others. However, most important of all is that the life prospects of many thousands of children have been improved immeasurably as a result of his commitment and leadership – something about which he should be proud, and for which I will always be grateful.
Recollections 11
Heather Rockhold Head of Lauriston Primary School and Non-Executive Director of The Learning Trust
Since his appointment as Director of Education in 2001, Alan has been relentless in pursuit of the highest possible educational outcomes for the children and young people of Hackney. He has led education in Hackney with a determination to ensure rigour, high standards and lack of complacency. What has impressed me above all is Alan’s focus on the needs of the most vulnerable children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities and those at risk because of social factors. He truly lives up to the slogan ‘No Child Left Behind’. I had the privilege of serving on the Board of The Learning Trust and working alongside Alan. During that period, I saw first-hand how impressive his incisive thinking and breadth of knowledge were. He was very forward thinking and anticipated many of the developments to come in education. His belief, to quote Lord Puttnam, that education ‘is the one key driver in enabling people to fulfil their potential, and therefore the sole means by which we can hope to deliver equality and social justice for all’ was crystal clear. When I first knew Alan he was the epitome of the sober-suited business executive. Over the years, he has transformed into the cycling fanatic whose most challenging questions to me were about rock groups I’d never heard of. Remember the Kings of Leon? His change of style has not detracted from his ability to operate at the highest level using his expertise not only to drive education and Children’s Services forward in Hackney but also to lead reviews of Children’s Services in other Local Authorities in England. Alan will be greatly missed in Hackney. We all owe him a debt of gratitude for his massive contribution in effecting positive change for the children and young people of Hackney.
Recollections  13
Karen Coulthard Headteacher of Berger Primary and Non-Executive Director, The Learning Trust
I would like to offer my warmest congratulations to Alan and wish him all the very best for his retirement. He has made a huge contribution to the children and families in Hackney, leading a transformation of the provision for all the pupils in the borough and ensuring they are all given the very best start in life. I would also like to offer my own personnel thanks for the support Alan gave me during my time as head at Berger. I owe so much to Alan for the support I received during the rebuilding of the primary school. This was an enormous challenge, but a very exciting time and Alan’s continued involvement ensured the project developed, providing the community with an outstanding building we were all so proud of. But, most importantly, I would like to express my gratitude for Alan’s commitment to those children in the borough facing the most challenging circumstances. Alan was always prepared to respond to concerns and worries about individuals and engage in supportive discussions when things were proving extremely demanding. It was always an enormous reassurance to know he was there and ready to listen. I hope the next stage of the journey is as enriching and rewarding as the last few years and wish Alan the very best for whatever he has planned for this most exciting time ahead.
Education is not the filling of a pail, but rather the lighting of a fire. WB Yeats
Recollections 15
Cheryl Day Headteacher Clapton Girls’ Academy and Non-Executive Director of The Learning Trust
The name ‘Alan Wood’ will always be synonymous with the tremendous success of Hackney schools. Under Alan’s leadership, the reputation of education in Hackney was transformed from being the very worst to being the very best. I was particularly fortunate to be a head teacher in a Hackney school during this time. I therefore cannot thank Alan enough for his hard work in ensuring that Hackney became the greatest of education authorities. Working with Alan, I felt supported and acknowledged for my work and the work going on in my school. I know other heads felt the same. However, this wasn’t a ‘given’. Alan was able to have those tough conversations that made you realize that for him, nothing was going to obstruct his high ambitions for the children of Hackney. I remember one evening event when Alan took me aside to point out that only successful schools in Hackney would survive. I knew what he was saying and I am sure he said that to every head! I also remember the ‘academy’ conversation! At the time, not everyone in Hackney was totally in favour of the academy programme, but Alan saw the benefits for us all and worked to reassure us that good schools had nothing to fear and everything to gain. He has been proved right, with Hackney now being a borough full of good and outstanding academies and schools. For me, Alan’s greatest strength was his commitment to the children of the borough. His vision was to ensure Hackney provided the high level education service that every child in the borough deserved. The reality of this meant much hard work and
16 Alan Wood: the view from the peloton
absolute commitment. I loved the persistence of Alan’s vision and his determination that Hackney would succeed. It has been wonderful to be part of that journey. In the words of the ‘Hackney Child’ – ‘I’ll say Hackney with pride in my voice’. Thank you so much Alan for what you have done for the children and young people of Hackney.
Recollections 17
Kevin McDonnell Headteacher of Stormont House School and Non-Executive Director of The Learning Trust
I have debated with, praised and criticised Alan many times for a long period now, perhaps most intensively during my time as a Non-Executive director on The Learning Trust Board. During those 7 years or so, I saw first-hand the depths of Alan’s passion, insight and organisational capabilities. I also experienced his willingness to listen and to face uncomfortable facts when good ideas didn’t play out as intended. Alan led education in Hackney through a remarkable period of improvement; absolutely remarkable. He deserves a quiet ‘thank you’ from every parent in the borough. One of my own most treasured memories relate to the moving and generous comments that Alan made about Stormont House School when we became the first outstanding school in Hackney, in 2005. I treasure them all the more because they were made to a wider audience, via an article in ‘The Key’. I have massive admiration for the way that Alan built a vision, a senior leadership team, and an education service that achieved something that was viewed as impossible by many. This required an ability to forge positive and effective partnerships, personal, political and practical, that very few people possess. So now it is time to move on to a well-earned ‘retirement’ that probably doesn’t look like retirement to the casual observer. Wherever you go, and whatever you do, Alan, I will hold the years working with you as some of the most significant in my life; they are still shaping my development as a Headteacher and my belief in what can be made possible for our young people. Thank you!
Recollections 19
Christopher Everett CBE Chair of Skinners’ Company’s School for Girls and Non-Executive Director of The Learning Trust
The Skinners’ Company owe Alan Wood a great debt for the support and help he gave us as Chief Executive of The Learning Trust in the transformation of the Skinners’ School for Girls (where I was Chair of Governors) into the Skinners’ Academy. At every stage – including the sale of the Girls School site, the arrangements for the Company’s joint ownership with Hackney of the new site, the transfer of the Lower School site back to the Trust, the choice of the architects for the new building, the fact that in the years running up to the term in which it became an Academy and moved to the new Academy building the school had no new entrants and so steadily reduced in size (a demanding transition) – Alan ensured the support of The Learning Trust in innumerable greater and lesser issues and was himself always on hand with good advice and helpful action. So it was no surprise to me when I became a non-executive director of The Learning Trust to discover that our experience of his support at Skinners was shared right across the board in all the schools and in every aspect of education and children’s services in Hackney. The Learning Trust was established in response to a belief that the standards of education in Hackney needed to be raised. Almost fifteen years later the transformation in the standing of Hackney in education and children’s services is a tribute to all of Alan’s colleagues and in particular to the success of his inspirational leadership. Hackney’s children and every aspect of education in the borough are profoundly in his debt. On a personal level I shall always remember with gratitude all my contacts with Alan. Discussion and negotiation with him is a pleasure. With never a trace of pomposity he combines a light touch with firmness of purpose, clarity of mind, a profoundly
20  Alan Wood: the view from the peloton
thought through point of view and a recognition of what is important and what is not, and all this larded with a happy sense of humour. Above all he has the enviable quality of combining business with friendship. I count our friendship a privilege. Both on my own behalf and on behalf of the Skinners’ Company I offer him every good wish for the future.
Recollections 21
Lesley Staggs Vice Chair and Non-Executive Director The Learning Trust
Alan’s unswerving focus on improving the lot of the children and families of Hackney will be my abiding memory of him. He could always see the bigger picture, both in terms of the task to be done and the differing views and priorities of those of us he was seeking to inform and persuade. This was never more evident than in the preparation for the transition of responsibility for education in Hackney from The Learning Trust to Hackney Council. He worked ceaselessly to ensure that continuing to uphold and improve on the high standards already achieved was at the forefront of everyone’s thinking, discussion and decision making. His success is evident in the way Hackney continues to go from strength to strength.
Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Recollections  23
Tim Shields Chief Executive London Borough of Hackney
I would like to thank Alan for the enormous contribution he has made not only to Hackney but to the wider world of local government. In his career Alan has made a difference to the lives of thousands of children. Whether it has been striving for excellence in education or social work his contribution over the decades has improved the life chances of so many people, giving them aspiration and opportunity. Many of the people will not understand that Alan has been behind the opportunities that they have benefited from and which will have a lasting impact for the whole of their life and in their community. Throughout his career, Alan has developed a set of skills that are rare, these have added a huge amount to the organisations he has worked in but also those he has assisted on a national level. Alan should be rightly proud of his contribution and the difference he has made, and will continue to make, to so many lives.
An ode to Alan Wood CBE
There once was a Hackney Director, who hailed from Stepney Green
Like superman he swooped in and saved the day
Always safeguarding children, a more innovative man you never have seen
Keeping government and Ofsted inspectors at bay
For the children of Hackney, Birmingham and Doncaster, what a difference he made His passion and determination created a legacy never to fade
In 2014 his Presidency year, he took over the world without any fear Never one to shirk from the big issue, giving the press a clear steer
Recollections 25
Starring on the Today programme, his fame and influence grew far and wide But his disappointment not to appear on Question Time was hard to hide His incisive razor sharp mind, put him streets ahead Of the government and policy officials, he so easily led All this, and his reputation for being straight down the line Earned him the ‘go-to-fixer for child protection’ headline Two offices he did have, with a plethora of staff he worked to the bone He had us filing in Dropbox, but only printing his emails made us moan
Known for always riding his bike, and being a Wolves and Chelsea fan These are a few of things that make him a very happy man For someone as skinny as a rake, we couldn’t believe he ate so much cake His appetite was hard to sate, but thankfully Sarah liked to bake His relentless pursuit of excellence, made ‘no child left behind’ a reality not a dream Hackney owes him a debt of gratitude, and for that he is held in the highest esteem Of all of these wonderful achievements he should rightly be proud Now off to spend time with Betsy, we hope her cries are not too loud!
The Hackney Bards (a.k.a Sarah Seymour and Kate Wignall)
Recollections 27
Ian Peacock Lead Member for Education, LBH and Non-Executive Director, The Learning Trust
I was on the panel which interviewed Alan for the post of Director of Education in Hackney. Over 15 years later I don’t remember much about his interview but I do remember the glowing recommendations from others due to his excellent work in Lambeth. Alan arrived in Hackney at a time when education was in crisis. The Council had been repeatedly criticised by OFSTED and had lost the confidence of schools and governors. Alan was instrumental in developing the model of The Learning Trust as a fresh start for the education authority in Hackney, at arm’s length from the Council whilst maintaining a public service ethos. Alan then became the Chief Executive of The Learning Trust and set about working with Sir Mike Tomlinson as Chair and many others to improve education in Hackney. He succeeded spectacularly. Education in Hackney is now unrecognisable compared to how it was when Alan first arrived, with successful and popular schools and a well-respected education service. I was the Council’s lead member for education during the start of Alan’s time in Hackney and worked closely with him for the first few years of The Learning Trust. Those years involved some difficult decisions, especially the closures of Kingsland and Homerton. I grew to appreciate Alan’s clear sense of direction and focus on what needed to be done, as well as his calmness under fire. He is also great company and a good friend. Alan’s role in improving the life chances of Hackney’s children cannot be overstated. I hope that he will enjoy a happy retirement looking back at a job well done.
Recollections 29
Rita Krishna Cabinet Member for Children’s Services London Borough of Hackney
The first meeting that Alan arranged for me once I became lead member was memorable. I came into Alan’s office at The Learning Trust and was faced with about ten senior officers of the Trust, all apparently eager to be held to account. Although it was completely the right thing for Alan to have arranged, I found it truly terrifying. In the nine subsequent years we worked together some of the many moments I reflect on fondly are: 1. Alan’s discombobulation (only time ever) on my suggesting to him that part of the reason for Michael Gove (then Secretary of State)’s visit to Hackney was to informally interview Alan himself in advance of inviting him formally to advise on the situation in Doncaster 2. Alan’s kindness when I embarrassingly dissolved in tears (only time ever) in a one to one meeting, too close to the death of a good friend 3. Alan asking apparently relevant questions as, hard-hatted, we looked out over what looked to me simply like a sea of concrete while the Hackney Ark was under construction (there were photographers present) 4. Alan’s challenge, at a Learning Trust Board meeting to the proposed strategy for special needs schools in the Borough - will Hackney become a regional centre of excellence? 5. Alan saying that a London DCS would never become President of the ADCS (he has proved himself wrong)
30 Alan Wood: the view from the peloton
6. Alan’s pleasure at Alys’s and Aneurin’s nuptials and at the prospect of becoming a grandparent To my mind, Alan is something like India. (India the country, that is). Very few people are neutral about either India or about Alan. Both provoke strong reactions – one might say you either love them or hate them. However, whatever the initial response, both repay perseverence, and the relationship which develops is enriching.
Recollections 31
Simon Bird Director of Corporate Affairs The Learning Trust
Move over Mourinho! Alan, you and I go back 20 years to the days of Lambeth and we subsequently worked together in Hackney. Prior to that, you had achieved good things, most notably in Camden and Southwark. In recent years, you have taken Hackney to even greater heights, made your mark on the national scene and answered the call to help turn around more than one hot-bed of local government politics. You deserve great credit for such distinguished public service, which must surely be unique in initiating change by raising the bar in some of the most challenging environments. But your greatest contribution has undoubtedly been to Hackney where you gave education and then children’s services the leadership and stability they so desperately needed. You gave TLT staff license to innovate and made them proud to work for Hackney which was once the Millwall of local government (‘nobody likes us’). You’ve never been afraid to ruffle feathers or make tough decisions. And you even scored the bloody winning ‘fox in the box’ goal in my leaving football match all those years ago. Well done, Sir!
Recollections  33
Leroy Logan MBE Retired Superintendent Chair of the Black Police Association Charitable Trust
I was fortunate to serve a third of my 30 year police career in Hackney, as a sergeant and superintendent during the 90s and early 2000s respectively. I was also fortunate to work with some great people during those very challenging times and Alan was no exception, primarily because he was willing to take risks and think outside the box. Alan took me totally by surprise in 2004 when he asked me to be a non-executive director of The Learning Trust Board (LTB), because he wanted my vast operational input in the strategic discussions of the LTB. It was clear to me that he recognised the relationship between schooling and policing, in particular the correlation between exclusions and crime. Alan also valued my cultural intelligence, from which I would challenge the policies and processes of the Trust, to ensure they were fit for purpose; in a similar way I was operating in the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS). He worked on developing an open and supportive environment for the LTB to operate in, to ensure all members felt confident to challenge and for their point of view to be heard and acknowledged. I enjoyed my 3 years on the LTB that helped my professional and personal development, which has followed me in retirement since I left the MPS in 2013. Alan had a great deal to do with making my time on the LTB very worthwhile. I can safely say that Alan has made a significant contribution to Hackney and many including myself will miss him.
Recollections 35
Colleen Amos Head of Communications and Marketing The Learning Trust, 2003–2012
The first time I met Alan was in 2003 at my interview for the Head of Communications and Marketing position. I asked two questions which were very important to me. What are your personal values and what type of culture do you want for The Learning Trust. His answers made me sure that I wanted the job and that I wanted to work for him. He wanted The Learning Trust to be a ‘human’ organisation where people felt valued and where people mattered, and they did matter to Alan. He allowed me to do things differently, to be creative, innovative and to encourage inspiration. He also provided me with challenge when required. His ability to communicate is legendary. He makes the complex simple, with his own distinct style and delivery. He was a man of the people and he made it a point of taking the time to engage with everyone at all levels. I found him to be an intriguing mix – steely professional, tough, innovative, true to his word and understanding, with a great sense of humour. I was often called to a meeting in his office. If he sat down, put his hands in his pockets or crossed his arms and then crossed his legs I knew it was Ok!!! Above all his personal conviction to education was never in question and he was able to generate a great deal of trust and respect. If he believed in something that would benefit education in the borough, he would defend it and he was not prepared to be swayed. This determination was a significant factor in his success, and at times was the cause of great frustration to others. He revolutionised education in Hackney in a decade and I am proud to have been part of that journey.
The stars that nature hung in heaven, And filled their lamps with everlasting oil, Give due light to the misled and lonely traveller John Milton
Recollections 37
Richard and Pam Parkes (nee Case)
ALAN WOOD – CUPID! We first worked with Alan when he joined Lambeth Council as their Director of Education and Community Services. Pam was Alan’s Community Services HR Manager and Richard joined his Lambeth team as Head of Youth and Community Services. In these roles we both supported Alan in his vision to innovate dated service delivery models for Adult Education, Early Years, Youth & Play Services. Working with Alan was challenging but rewarding, his expectations in the provision of high quality, cost effective and innovative services was what energised and motivated those who worked with him. However, it is his understanding of what makes people ‘tick’, playing to their strengths and his genuine care about the people who worked for him that make him special to us. Through the opportunities Alan created we were brought together and our careers were nurtured, not only did we get to contribute to a variety of ground breaking projects under his leadership so also began our romance. We recognise that Alan was piviotal the making of our our respective careers, Pam did not hesitate to join him in Hackney to lead the Education HR function and take part in the implementation of The Learning Trust. Richard followed soon after as a member of the Trust’s first management team. We were both inspired by his leadership and his vision to improve the education and life chances of young people in Hackney. Alan expected the best from us and through him we wanted to do our best. We see him not only as our first professional mentor and advocate but now a close friend, always consistently supportive and there for us at those critical moments. We wish him the very best in his transition into a new portfolio career and our commitment to give him full support.
Recollections 39
Olly Cochrane Head of Human Resources Hackney Learning Trust
Alan Thorpe Richard Wood – a razor sharp mind that cuts through the periphery ‘stuff’ and gets to the kernel of the matter before you have even explained it. He just gets it!
Recollections 41
Jackie Moylan Assistant Director of Finance, Children & Young People’s Services London Borough of Hackney
An inspirational leader who I couldn’t fail to learn from. You always ask the difficult questions and challenge convention whatever the subject and even after 7 years working with you there was without fail something I hadn’t thought of! It has been great working for you and I will miss our chats - football or otherwise (typical that you have left in the one year West Ham are above Chelsea in the league!). Wishing you lots of fun in your retirement.
The desire that is satisfied is not a great desire, nor has the shoulder used all its might that an unbreakable gate has never strained. W. B. Yeats, ‘Anima Hominis’, Per Amica Silentia Lunae
A line will take us hours maybe; Yet if it does not seem a moment’s thought, Our stitching and unstitching has been naught. W. B. Yeats, ‘Adam’s Curse’, In the Seven Woods
Words are always getting conventionalised to some secondary meaning. It is one of the works of poetry to take the truants in custody and bring them back to their right senses. W. B. Yeats, letter to Ellen O’Leary, Feb. 3, 1889
Think where man’s glory most begins and ends, And say my glory was I had such friends. W. B. Yeats, ‘The Municipal Gallery Re-Visited’
Recollections 43
Frank O’Donoghue Head of Business Services Hackney Learning Trust
Dear Alan, There are many compliments a colleague could pay and still not find the right words to capture the spirit of the compliment. So to pick just one – it would be the pleasure, when the occasion required, of hearing you speak to explain the complex, or the simple, but always important ideas that inspired the work we all did. On other occasions it was not about the ideas, but about the people, and again it was always insightful and motivating. It seemed in keeping then to draw on the words of a thinker and writer, who was also something of a romantic W. B. Yeats, to provide the bookends for this modest compliment to a great communicator. Thanks, Frank
Recollections 45
Andrew Lee Assistant Director, Education Services Hackney Learning Trust
Just before I came to work in Hackney in 2002 Alan wrote an article entitled – ‘what is it that EPs do exactly’. All my colleagues queried why I was applying for a post in Hackney with a director of education who they regarded as ‘hostile’ to EPs. However, I found Alan to be nothing but supportive and he gave me acres of space to manoeuvre, whereas they were often under fire from their ‘supportive’ directors… Before you leave, Alan I have to ask a one professional-life question that I need urgently answered: do you now know what it is that EPs do exactly?!!!
Recollections 47
Martin Buck Head of Secondary Hackney Learning Trust
I only worked with Alan for a relatively short time and had limited contact with him in a professional role that increased slightly after Tricia’s death during the period before Anne’s appointment. I was greatly impressed by Alan’s ability to articulate clearly and precisely big themes and issues in a manner accessible to the majority and to identify the next steps in the journey of change and improvement facing CYPS/HLT, which also offered challenge to those in the organisation, as well as our provider partners. Alan’s direct style and approach in demanding high standards and outcomes didn’t always make for easy negotiation, especially in the area of performance in the secondary sector. I nevertheless always felt that I was listened to even if a robust challenge and disagreement had been indicated. My second strong abiding memory of Alan’s leadership will be the mantra that whatever the provider maintained school or academy, free school or alternative provider, nursery or college all should be held to account to ensure that Hackney children and young people get the best possible outcomes. A powerful intent that I believe empowered everyone in our organisation with a sense of real purpose to do a better job. On another level I greatly enjoyed the banter between Alan and Derek Powell, especially on a Monday morning before the office became full, over the weekend’s football results affecting Alan’s two great professional football loves – Chelsea and Wolves. But I have never been able to gain an understanding of whether these two teams stand in any way differentiated in Alan’s warmth and admiration of their virtues. Mr Powell’s ability to give out wicked one liners mostly in the form of provocative questions, offered in his deliberate innocent style, as well to take these in
48  Alan Wood: the view from the peloton
return from the Executive Director, with Alan’s similar ability to receive stick and then subtly give it back along with the interlacing of HLT business into this arena, made for very funny and clever conversation and an interesting start to the week. I will miss these friendly sparring matches My very best wishes Alan. Thanks for all your very strong and sustained work and immense leadership
Recollections 49
Hilary Ryan Principal Primary Advisor Hackney Learning Trust
Whilst a headteacher and a school improvement officer on the Wirral, I read with admiration of the transformation of education and children’s social care in the London Borough of Hackney. Feeling somewhat daunted by the prospect of applying for a job in school improvement in Hackney, I read ‘Revolution in a Decade’ which chronicled how this transformation had been achieved. I read of the vision of The Learning Trust that all pupils in Hackney could do as well as pupils anywhere else. I read of the intolerance of failure, of the expectation of the highest performance from every member of staff; of the Trust’s courage to take action to bring about and maintain improvement; of the transformation of services based on action and reality. When I got here I found that the reality was even more impressive than the rhetoric. The Learning Trust, under Alan’s leadership and direction, has worked with schools to improve the life chances of innumerable children, their proud parents and their future employers. In public service good people do great things but great people leave an outstanding legacy. Alan’s legacy is the amazing teams which he built and nurtured which will ensure that not only will his work be continued but that Hackney has every opportunity to remain at the cutting edge of improvement. It has been a privilege to have been associated with such a remarkable colleague.
Recollections 51
Mark Brownlow Corporate Governance Officer Hackney Learning Trust
There is much one could say about Alan’s contribution to Hackney but a couple of observations about him spring immediately to mind. First, the remarkable transformation in Hackney education that has occurred during the fifteen years Alan has been here could not have happened without his extraordinary commitment and clarity of vision. When he arrived, education in Hackney was a byword for failure; low morale and defeatism were rife; mediocrity and low expectations were the norm; and dissatisfaction with the service was universal among schools. It took great courage to take on the leadership of the service in these circumstances, when few would have rated his chances of success. It then required remarkable strength of character and persistence to be prepared to take tough decisions when they were needed and to insist on only the highest standards. What I recall particularly from those difficult early days are Alan’s irrepressible optimism and cheerfulness in the face of immense challenges, his unerring belief that all young people were entitled to an excellent education regardless of background. Second, since 2012 I have had the privilege of observing Alan’s leadership skills at close quarters through administering his fortnightly management team meetings. Most impressive are his wisdom and judgement, his clarity of analysis and intellectual curiosity, his ability to think creatively and innovatively and to inspire colleagues to seek fresh solutions to the challenges facing their services; above all his commitment to furthering the wellbeing and prospects of Hackney’s young people.
52  Alan Wood: the view from the peloton
As much as his formidable leadership qualities, however, his sense of fun, his humour and his personal warmth and enthusiasm are what have made Alan such an inspiring and stimulating person to work with.
Recollections 53
Hilary Smith Head of Strategy, Policy and Governance Hackney Learning Trust
Some years (decades) ago when I started work in Lambeth, I was told a story about the Assistant Director punching a hole in their office wall in frustration about somebody not doing something or other. That hole of legend seemed incongruous with the same AD who came along to an SEN team meeting to engage and motivate Sandi Morrison’s new team with wit and charm. One way or another, I’ve had a huge respect (and not just out of terror!) whilst working with Alan over the years. I remember his warm and comradely greeting when I started working at The Learning Trust which I quickly discovered was reflected in the general way TLT worked. I knew he didn’t suffer fools, but I also knew that he provided encouragement and support to many people across the organisation who wanted to work together to improve and develop the service. I look forward to bumping into Alan along the way and being asked what the gossip is (not that I ever had any gossip to share with him)!
Recollections 55
Tamara Al-Na’ama Business Planning and Executive Support Manager Hackney Learning Trust
Retirement has arrived! I’ve been at TLT/HLT for over six years now and have only ever known it with you at the head of the ship! Along the way I’ve seen you… lead several Heads of the Trust – the reigns of Mr Belk, Tricia and lastly Anne (a tough bunch to keep in check!), have a number of support staff… I’m sure there was a guy fleetingly in post for a day at one point?! Oh, and not forgetting, I’ve witnessed all the various hairstyles! One constant however, has been your dedication and commitment to Hackney, which is truly inspiring. It’s been a privilege to have worked at the Trust during your time of leadership and it was fantastic to see you honoured with your CBE which was fully deserved and great recognition of your achievements. You will be sorely missed at HLT but will be forever in our minds when we’re eating cake. I hope your Sweeney shoes take you along a new exciting path and this next chapter of your journey is equally as rewarding as your impressive career. I have no doubt you’ll be a terrific grandad and Betsy will be the first kid on the block to ride her own two wheels!
Recollections 57
Sir Julian Le Grand FBA Richard Titmuss Professor of Social Policy London School of Economics
Alan has contributed enormously to the reform of children’s services in England. It’s no exaggeration to say that, especially in the last few years, he has done more for progress in the area than any other manager or practitioner in the country. His achievements arise in part from a number of roles he has voluntarily taken in recent years, including his work on failing children’s services, and his Presidency of the Association of Directors of Children Services. As chair of the panels looking into children’s services in Doncaster and Birmingham, I can confirm that Alan was key to all the panels’ activities. Quite simply, the reports could not have been written without him. His ideas, his experience and his negotiating skills were absolutely central to our work. When I had the honour of recently being knighted by the Queen, she asked about the problems the country has been encountering over children’s social care. I was able to give her what I hoped was a reassuring answer – that the problems were under control. I felt able to give that reassurance because of the reforms pioneered by Alan. I hope very much that in due course he will have an opportunity himself to tell this to the Queen – though he will have to cut his hair first…
Recollections 59
Afterword Richard Hardie Chair of The Learning Trust 2007–2012 and Non-Executive Director 2003–2012
I would have been wrong if I’d thought that being asked to write this Afterword in the back of Alan’s book was an invitation to have the last word about Alan. He is so much his own man that it will be a very long time before anybody does that other than Alan himself. Furthermore, just about everything that could be said has been written in the previous pages. Alan has been extraordinarily effective because he has a rare combination of strengths: he is passionate about the moral purpose of his mandate but he is realistic about the need for sheer hard work to make progress; he has no patience with mediocrity but he accepts that not everyone moves or thinks as fast as he does, and he prefers coaching to shouting, at least to begin with; and he has very strong instincts about where the roots of problems are but he is prepared to be proved wrong, and changes his mind if persuaded. These are the strengths of a man with a strong intellect and a strong sense of justice, and they have enabled him to assemble strong teams and to keep them. The moral purpose of all involved in The Learning Trust and now in its successor has been clear for all to see, and has formed the basis of the strategy for transforming education in Hackney. Alan was at the centre of this for many years; it was a textbook case of what can be achieved if the vision is set at the top and guides day-to-day activity at every level in the organisation. It was a great privilege for me to be asked to take over the chair of TLT on Mike Tomlinson’s retirement, particularly because I had reporting to me someone whom historians will recognise, as do his contemporaries, as one of the major figures of his
60 Alan Wood: the view from the peloton
time in education and social services. On a personal level I had some trepidation at the beginning. Alan and I were from very different backgrounds and had totally different life experiences, but I shouldn’t have worried. He quickly taught me what I needed to know to get started, and was always keen to explore what I could bring in from the private sector which he was big enough to realise has contributions to make in the public realm if the structure and the people are right. Alan had a huge hand in making a success of our model. I’m amazed no-one has copied it. Alan has guided Hackney’s children’s services through a period of immense change and challenge, and has achieved regional and national recognition. How lucky we are that he is likeable and modest as well, and true to his friends. He will be missed but his example and achievements will endure. It’s been an honour for me to have worked with him.