Muslim leader now controls UK education system

On March 14, 2025, Hamid Patel was appointed interim chairman of Ofsted, the body responsible for education standards in England. The appointment marks the first time in British history that a Muslim has held this important position.

Patel will oversee the inspection of schools and educational institutions in England and strategic planning for the development of academic education for the next five months.

Hamid Patel is a seasoned leader in education. He has been the head of Star Academies Trust since 2010, transforming it into one of the highest-rated educational institutions in the country. The schools under his leadership have been repeatedly rated “outstanding” by Ofsted.

Ofsted is an independent body that monitors standards in education, childcare and skills in England. It inspects schools, nurseries, colleges and other educational institutions, assesses their quality and makes recommendations for improvement.