Lesley Birch, Deputy CEO of Meridian Trust, has been named as one of the first advisors for the Department for Education’s (DfE) newly launched RISE (Regional Improvement for Standards and Excellence) teams.
Lesley is one of 20 education leaders selected to spearhead the government’s initiative to support and transform schools requiring targeted assistance.
In the new role, Lesley will be one of two initial advisors for the Eastern region, working alongside Jonathan Taylor, CEO of Sapientia Trust. This appointment recognises Lesley’s expertise and positions Meridian Trust at the forefront of system-led leadership in the region.
The RISE programme is part of the government’s strategy to improve educational outcomes across the nation. The RISE advisors will work closely with schools to identify challenges, implement effective strategies, and develop environments where pupils can thrive.
As a RISE advisor working on a part-time seconded basis, Lesley will collaborate with school leaders to drive improvements, share best practices, and support sector-wide development.
Speaking about the appointment, Lesley said: “I’m honoured to take on this role as a RISE advisor. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to contribute to shaping education policy and practice in our region.
“I look forward to working with schools to support their improvement journeys and ensure that every child has access to a high-quality education.”
Mark Woods, CEO of Meridian Trust, said: “We are really pleased that Lesley has been appointed as a RISE adviser. Lesley cares deeply about supporting schools and helping them improve, and I have no doubt she will make a positive difference in this role. Everyone at Meridian Trust is proud of her achievement, and we will fully support her as she takes on this important work. Her appointment not only acknowledges her expertise but also reaffirms Meridian Trust’s leadership in driving system-wide educational excellence.”
