The Deputy Director of Education for the Diocese of Carlisle – the Church of England in Cumbria – has been appointed the Diocese of Manchester’s new Director of Education.

Deborah Smith will take up the position in November 2019, having joined the Diocese of Carlisle three years ago.

In Cumbria she has had responsibility for monitoring and supporting the effectiveness of church schools including governance, leadership and ensuring schools get the training and support they need.

Deborah has also liaised closely with key stakeholders - locally and nationally - as well as overseeing the Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) process within the diocese, which evaluates the distinctiveness and effectiveness of church schools.

Deborah said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working for the Diocese of Carlisle. It has been a time when I feel I have been able to flourish both professionally and personally.

“I have built strong relationships with headteachers and church schools across the county and it has been wonderful to witness and support the tremendous work which goes on in church schools across Cumbria, all based within a strong Christian ethos.

“I thank everyone for their support during my time as Deputy Director of Education and I move to my new role, excited by the prospect of supporting schools as they serve children, families and communities across the Diocese of Manchester.”

Deborah came to her post in Cumbria after more than 30 years working in the education sector, latterly as Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Inter-Schools Christian Union (NISCU). Prior to joining the Diocese of Carlisle she was also a member of the Diocesan Board of Education (DBE).

Michael Mill, the Diocese of Carlisle’s Director of Education said: “I am delighted that Deborah has this great opportunity to shine. We have valued her fellowship and commitment to supporting our church schools in Carlisle Diocese. Her wisdom, insight and interpersonal skills have been much appreciated by colleagues, headteachers and governors.”

The Rev Andrew Towner, Chair of the Carlisle Diocesan Board of Education (DBE), said: “Deborah has given much to our County over the past three years, and will be much missed. Many people have spoken to me about her relational strengths, compassion and pastoral support, as well as energy and strategic vision.

“Although I am thrilled that Deborah has been appointed to such a prestigious and exiting role, which is very well deserved, we shall certainly miss her here. I am pleased that we shall continue to work together as members of DBE Services, a strategic grouping of North and North-Western Dioceses’ DBEs.”

Deborah, is married to Paul, Lead Evangelist for the Liverpool Church Army Centre of Mission. The couple live in Liverpool and have two grown up children.

For further information please contact Dave Roberts, Diocesan Communications Manager, on 07469 153658, 01768 807764 or atcommunications@carlislediocese.org.uk.