Warwickshire News Mine

Dr Wood, who was Warwickshire’s education chief from 1995 until 2006 and in 2005 became Acting Chief Executive for Warwickshire County Council, has been honoured in recognition of his services to education and the community in Warwickshire.

During his time as County Education Officer, Dr Wood developed a Strategic Plan for education in the county, which OFSTED commended. During that time, he reorganised the county’s system of first, middle and high schools into a primary and secondary system.

Speaking about his OBE, Dr Wood said: "I am absolutely honoured. These things come out of the blue and you always feel that there are more deserving people. I think it’s a great tribute to the management team I worked alongside and some tremendous people in Warwickshire on the front line in schools and in the county council."

Dr Wood served in a number of senior education roles in Staffordshire County Council before joining Warwickshire County Council in 1989. He served Warwickshire for almost 18 years, and was initially employed as Deputy County Education Officer.

Marion Davis, Strategic Director for Children, Young People and Families at Warwickshire County Council, said: “My congratulations go to Eric Wood on this national honour which acknowledges his outstanding work with Warwickshire schools and communities. 

"His commitment to excellence in education has continued into his retirement and he now plays an active role as school governor in Rugby.”

From 2006 until 2008, Dr Wood was Chief Executive of Warwickshire Police Authority. He received a Doctorate in Education from the University of Warwick in 2006 and in 2007 he was made a Freeman of Rugby. He is currently Chair of Governors at St Andrew’s Benn Primary School in Rugby.

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