Sam Smith, currently Executive Headteacher of St Alphege, Church of England Schools in Solihull has been appointed as the new Diocesan Director of Education.
In the role, Sam will provide strategic leadership for the Diocesan Board of Education and team of officers, as they work to support the Diocese’s 52 Church schools across Birmingham and the wider region.
Sam has extensive experience working in schools in Worcestershire and Birmingham. His first headship was at Hawkesley Church Primary Academy in Kings Norton, before taking up his current role at St Alphege. Sam led both schools through considerable change, resulting in several Outstanding Ofsted judgements and data outcomes.
Announcing the appointment, the Very Reverend Matt Thompson, Chair of the Diocesan Board of Education said,
“We are delighted that Sam is going to be our next Director of Education. Sam has an impressive track record of achievement as a headteacher and a very exciting vision for the flourishing of our Church schools.”
In this role, Sam will champion the distinctively Christian ethos of Church of England Birmingham’s schools and nurture leaders who bring faith to life in their communities. He will work collaboratively with headteachers, governors, clergy and national partners to shape the future of Church school education. Sam will also represent Church of England Birmingham regionally and nationally.
The Right Reverend Dr Michael Volland, Bishop of Birmingham welcomed the appointment,
“I am delighted that Sam has responded to God’s call to take up the role of Diocesan Director of Education.
“His passion, vision and creative energy for the role, alongside a clear strategic grasp of the wonderful opportunities and real challenges facing our church schools, marked Sam out as the outstanding candidate.”
The Diocese’s 52 schools are spread across Birmingham, Sandwell, Solihull, Warwickshire and Worcestershire. Many schools are in densely populated inner-city areas, serving children from a variety of belief backgrounds, while others serve small rural communities and suburbs too.
Reflecting on his appointment Sam Smith commented,
“I feel incredibly honoured to be appointed to serve The Church of England Birmingham in this role.
“Having spent many years working in Birmingham’s Church schools, I care deeply about the difference they make to children, families and communities.
“I look forward to supporting our schools so that they continue to flourish and live out the Christian vision at the heart of their work.”
Sam will take up the role from September 2026.