Chief executive of controversial chain of free schools leaves her position

Joanne Taylor, who is standing down as chief executive of Canary Wharf College Ltd, appearing at church service at one of the trust's schools last April (still from YouTube video).

The chief executive of a chain of free schools which has been beset by controversy over the past 18 months has left her position and will not be returning to work, parents were told yesterday.

Joanne Taylor, who has led the three-school Canary Wharf College Ltd since January 2023 and faced a series of crises including union strike action and a complaint by more than 300 parents, has taken the “thoughtful decision” to stand down, its chair said in a letter.

Ms Taylor’s last day of employment will be December 31^st. But until then, she will be taking a “period of leave,” said the letter. This means that she was not in work this week, which is the last of the half-term, and will not be returning after the break.

Luke Tryl, a high-profile member of the trust – the members have ultimate control, including the ability to appoint and dismiss trustees – is also standing down, Education Uncovered understands.