Harry Devonport

Following a successful teaching career, which included working as a Headteacher at a South East Manchester high school, Harry went on to lead Blackburn with Darwen’s nationally recognised Education Action Zone. Harry has held several Chief Officer positions within the local authority, most recently as Director of Education, where he led focused work on school improvement and the raising of standards, with targeted work with vulnerable and underachieving groups.

Harry also managed the development of the Children and Young People’s Plan (CYPP) and the CYPP Partnership. He oversaw the development of performance management, quality assurance and systems to support inspection and accountability, as well as the Education Department’s resourcing strategy, workforce development and its capital programme.

Harry retired in February 2012 and continues to remain active in supporting education within the local area. In 2018, Harry led the formation of the Pennine Trust, a small Multi Academy Trust in East Lancashire.