Durell Barnes

Durell specialises in the education sector and advises Alder’s clients across a host of topics, such as governance, inspection readiness, safeguarding, compliance and issues relating to leadership and management. Durell taught in independent schools for twenty years, more than half of which as a deputy head. As a school leader he specialised in curriculum development, appraisal, performance management, professional development and strategic planning.

Previously, he was Deputy Director and Head of Communications at the Independent Schools Inspectorate, where he was responsible for liaising with the Department for Education, Ofsted, local authorities, independent school associations, governors and heads on matters relating to safeguarding and quality assurance. His other roles have included Head of Governance and Compliance at RSAcademics and Chair of the Independent Schools Examinations Board.

Durell’s variety of leadership roles across the sector ensures he is well placed to offer Alder clients expert advice when dealing with the whole range of issues can present themselves to schools.