The UCL Institute of Education has appointed Becky Francis its next director, the first woman to hold the position in its 114-year history.

Professor Francis, who will take up her post at the beginning of July, is currently professor of education and social justice and director of research in the department of education and professional studies at King’s College London.

The IoE has been under the interim management of Andrew Brown since the departure of Chris Husbands, who took over as vice-chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University last month.

Before joining King’s, Professor Francis had served as director of The Pearson Think Tank and as director of education at the Royal Society of Arts. She has also held positions at the University of Roehampton and at London Metropolitan University.

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Professor Francis described the IoE as the “most prestigious education institution in the world”.

“The merger with University College London has enhanced the institute’s already world-leading reputation, and I look forward to working with staff and students to deliver on the next stage of our ambitious plans,” she said.

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Professor Brown added that it was an “exciting appointment”.

“Becky will bring energy and an outstanding record on engagement with policy and practitioner communities, as well as valuable leadership experience within and beyond academia – all of which will serve the IoE well in the next phase of its development,” he said.

Michael Arthur, UCL’s president and provost, said that Professor Francis will “bring a wealth of educational experience and social policy expertise to UCL, and her knowledge and leadership will be invaluable to staff and students at the institute”.

john.elmes@tesglobal.com