Mansfield and Ashfield schools head is knighted

Barry Day is chief executive of the Greenwood Dale Foundation Trust (GDFT), which is responsible for Mansfield Primary Academy, Newgate Lane, and Daneswood Junior Academy, Skegby.

A spokesman for the not-for-profit trust said Mr Day’s determination to drive up standards of education in the UK motivated him to become a multi-Academy sponsor and help schools in challenging circumstances.

The spokesman added: “Over the last five years, Barry has carefully grown the GDFT which is now sponsor of 24 academies and responsible for the education of over 16,000 pupils.

“The impact he has had on improving progress, attainment and attendance is remarkable.

“This academic year alone, eight GDFT Academies have been inspected by Ofsted and none have received any judgement less than ‘good’.

“The Trust is recognised nationally as a leader of educational best practice and continues to be an extremely attractive option for schools that are under achieving.”

Mr Day said: “I am delighted to have been awarded a UK National Honour for my services to education in this country.

“I have been fortunate to work with some of the most outstanding educationalists and the most talented support staff in the country.

“Our success is based on team work and I have a great team around me.

“My ambition is that pupils become advocates of the Trust, having benefitted from an educational culture which has enabled them to become purposeful citizens who are well qualified, confident and highly employable.”