An Ofsted spokeswoman cited 'personal and health reasons' for Ms Smith's departure, just weeks before the publication of a report on the Directorate's first year of operation. Maurice Smith, Ofsted early years regional manager for the north-west region, is now acting director for early years, and is leading Ofsted's work in the regulation of daycare and early years education.
Ms Smith's appointment to the new post in March 2001 was welcomed by early years organisations as she brought a strong early years background, which included being director of children's services for the charity Barnardo's, founding a community nursery in Keighley, West Yorkshire, working with lone parent charity Gingerbread as a daycare development officer and being head of children's services at Manchester City Council.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here