His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education and Training in Wales

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This page was updated on 21/02/2023
Owen Evans

The appointment, functions and powers of His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education and Training in Wales (HMCI) are determined by legislation: in the Education Act 2005, the Learning and Skills Act 2000 and the Children Act 2004. His statutory position is set out in the Government of Wales Act 2006.

Owen Evans is responsible for the inspection of education and training in Wales, as well as the management, staffing and organisation of Estyn. He provides independent advice to Welsh Ministers which contributes to the development and review of policy in Wales. Owen also plays a key role in working closely with the other inspection, audit and regulation bodies in Wales, to underpin joint planning and working. In addition, as Estyn’s Accounting Officer he ensures that resources are used properly and provide value for money. The Chief Inspector also publishes an Annual Report on the standards and quality of education and training in Wales.

Welsh speaking, Owen was educated at Ysgol Penweddig and Coleg Ceredigion, Aberystwyth before graduating in economics from Swansea University. Owen joined Estyn from his position of Chief Executive of S4C, the Welsh language Broadcaster. Prior to joining S4C, he was Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Welsh Government, responsible for Education and Public Services. Between 2008 and 2010 he was director of Business in the Community Wales and for 10 years before that he worked for BT, including as a member of the UK team developing BT's broadband strategy. He has served as a member of the Welsh Language Board and previously chaired the Cardiff Education Development Board. 

He is currently a member of Marie Curie's advisory board in Wales, is part of the Speakers for Schools programme and chairs WEPCo. He is a member of Aberystwyth University's Council.

Part of Who's who: Meet the Chief Inspector and his team