Bury Council appoints Ben Dunne as new director of education and skills

Bury Council is delighted to announce the appointment of Ben Dunne as its new director of early years, education and skills.

He will lead these services to ensure the borough’s children and young people have access to the best early years, education and post-16 opportunities, allowing them to reach their full potential.

Ben joins from Islington Council, where he was assistant director of school improvement and pupil progression. He has extensive experience across schools and education, including many years as a secondary school headteacher, an education consultant, co-founder of The Challenge Academy Trust (TCAT) in Warrington and as an executive principal of the Endeavour Learning Trust.

He brings a wealth of knowledge to the role, as well as a passion for driving educational standards, developing essential skills for young people and a passion for promoting partnership working across a wide range of stakeholders.

Ben will be stepping into the role following the departure of Stephen Holden, who returned to the school system in July. A proud resident of the North West, Ben is looking forward to bringing his expertise closer to home and driving forward Bury’s vision for inclusive, high-quality education and skills provision.

His appointment follows a rigorous selection process, including technical interviews and panels with stakeholders and team members.

Councillor Lucy Smith, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Ben to Bury Council at an exciting time for education in the borough. His strong record in building relationships, championing new opportunities, and putting young people first really impressed us throughout the recruitment process. We’re confident Ben will help deliver on our ambitions for every child and young person to have the very best start in life.”

Mr Dunne said: “I’m honoured to be joining Bury and to have the opportunity to work with schools, families, and community partners to facilitate sharing, strengthening and developing the very best practice across the region. Bury’s size and geography affords us the opportunity to get everyone in the room and really define how we are going to work together and what we can do collectively moving forward.

“My priority will be to listen carefully from the outset, and to build on the great work already happening here. Together, I believe we can further strengthen pathways for our young people - from early years right through into adulthood - ensuring they have every chance to succeed in learning, in work, and in life.”

Ben’s appointment comes following a recent Ofsted inspection which noted significant improvements in children’s services. The council is focusing on raising standards, improving inclusion and supporting every child to achieve their potential, in partnership with schools and wider agencies.

ENDS

Press release issued: 24 September 2025.