The Didcot-based National Association for Able Children in Education (NACE) has appointed Paul K. Ainsworth as its new chief executive, placing him at the helm of an Oxfordshire charity whose work with schools extends across the UK and internationally.
Ainsworth takes on the role with a remit to help schools identify and develop the abilities of more able learners while promoting high expectations and opportunities for all pupils.
NACE describes itself as the UK’s leading charity dedicated to supporting schools in developing high-quality provision for more able learners.
From its headquarters in Didcot, it works with hundreds of schools, trusts and education organisations through professional development, research, resources and accreditation programmes.
Ainsworth brings an education career spanning teaching, senior leadership and headship, as well as national work supporting schools and education professionals in leadership and school improvement. He is also the author of 10 books.
As chief executive, he will lead NACE’s work to help schools recognise and nurture talent while addressing barriers that can limit young people’s opportunities, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“I am incredibly proud to be leading an organisation with such a strong reputation and an important mission,” Ainsworth said. “Too often, a young person’s opportunities can be shaped by circumstances rather than potential.”
He said NACE’s role was to challenge those circumstances and ensure that young people had opportunities to develop their abilities “regardless of their background, postcode or personal circumstances”.
“I am excited to work with schools across the country to ensure that more learners are recognised, challenged and supported to thrive,” he said.
Hilary Lowe, NACE’s chair of trustees, said Ainsworth brought extensive educational experience, strategic leadership and a commitment to equity and excellence to the role.
“We are delighted to welcome him as CEO and look forward to the impact his leadership will have on schools, teachers and learners across the NACE community,” she said.
The appointment comes as NACE continues to work with schools in the UK and internationally on provision for more able learners, within a wider approach that seeks to maintain high expectations across the classroom.
With its headquarters in Didcot, the charity remains one of Oxfordshire’s education organisations with a national and international reach.
