Birbalsingh defends Ofsted's new chairman, Sir Hamid Patel

Katharine Birbalsingh has defended Sir Hamid Patel, the newly appointed interim chairman of Ofsted. Sir Hamid, a former headteacher of Tauheedul Islam Girls’ High School, will serve until a permanent chairman is found. Birbalsingh highlighted Sir Hamid's achievements in education, noting his school’s high rankings. She criticized critics who focus on his Islamic practices, stating they overlook his qualifications and leadership. Sir Hamid leads the Star Academies Trust, which operates nearly 40 schools, including Islamic and Christian institutions. He has been on Ofsted's board since 2019 and has been with Star Academies since 2010.