Mel Woodcock has had a long career in education as a teacher, headteacher, governor and consultant. After qualifying in London, he worked in schools in Yorkshire teaching English and French. He moved on to taking an interest in the development of the curriculum particularly in Personal and Social Education and was involved in a number of innovative projects nationally. He has had two headships, both in challenging schools. In his second headship he was appointed to an all boys school in Special Measures. He succeeded in leading the school out of Special Measures and almost doubling the roll. He always says that the really difficult bit was to stay there and maintain the improvement for 10 years. After retiring from headship, he has spent time as a consultant carrying out a number of research, support and interim assignments. He has worked on the London Challenge, acted as a School Improvement Partner, led the school improvement function in two local authorities and chaired two Interim Executive Boards. His involvement with the Beal and the Beacon Trust dates to his time with the London Challenge. He is committed to promoting and supporting the Beacon ethos of excellence and achievement for all.