David Bell in top education job

David Bell was made chief inspector in 2002

The chief inspector of England's schools David Bell is to take over as the government's top education official.

He is the new permanent secretary - or chief civil servant - at the Department for Education and Skills.

He replaces Sir David Normington, who is moving to the Home Office as permanent secretary.

Education Secretary Ruth Kelly said Mr Bell had played a key role in driving up standards in schools.

He takes up his new post in early January and will be replaced at Ofsted on an acting basis by Maurice Smith, a director at England's schools inspectorate. There will be an open competition for the job in the new year.

Education Secretary Ruth Kelly said she was very pleased such a strong appointment had been made for what was such an important job in education.

"David has already played a key role at Ofsted in the progress we have made in driving up standards in our schools and ensuring we have the best generation of teachers ever," she said.

"He is someone who cares passionately about education, has an excellent grasp of the issues and the skills to make a real difference. He has an extensive knowledge and expertise about further education, childcare and early years education in addition to his experience in schools."

Improvements

David Bell, 46, became chief inspector in 2002 after a wide-ranging career in education. He has been a primary school teacher, Open University lecturer and headteacher as well as the chief executive of Bedfordshire County Council and the director of education at Newcastle City Council.

He said he was delighted: "Whilst much has been achieved there are real challenges across the work of the department which I am looking forward to.

"I am excited at the prospect of working closely with all my new colleagues in trying to make further improvements to the lives of young people, children and families."

His successor, Maurice Smith, who is 50, was made director of early years at Ofsted in 2003. Before that, he led Ofsted's inspections of local education authorities.