Deputy Public Service Commissioner Heather Baggott today announced the appointment of Mr David Ferguson as Chief Review Officer and Chief Executive, Education Review Office (ERO).
ERO is the Government’s external education evaluation agency, responsible for reviewing the performance of schools, kura, kōhanga reo and early learning services, and providing evidence‑based insights to lift outcomes across the education system.
Ms Baggott said Mr Ferguson brings a deep understanding of the education system and has the leadership experience needed to support ERO to deliver on the Government’s priorities for improved student outcomes, attendance and system performance.
“Mr Ferguson has the leadership and governance experience to progress change in the education sector,” said Ms Baggott.
“He understands how effective evaluation, evidence and insight can drive improvement – and he brings a clear focus on lifting outcomes for children and young people.”
Mr Ferguson is currently the chief executive and co-founder of the Teachers’ Institute, and chair of the Teaching Council. He is also a board member of the New Zealand Qualifications Authority. He was previously the headmaster of Westlake Boys’ High School, one of New Zealand’s biggest schools, which he led for 15 years.
Ms Baggott said Mr Ferguson has the experience and judgement to lead ERO at a time of significant change for both the agency and the education sector.
“He has the experience and leadership skills to work across the education sector and make improvements at the agency and system level,” she said.
“He understands the role ERO plays in providing independent, evidence‑based insights, and has the credibility to work alongside educators, leaders and stakeholders to strengthen performance across the system.”
Mr Ferguson has been appointed for 5 years from 13 July 2026.
Biography
Mr Ferguson is currently the chair of the Teaching Council, a role he has held since August 2025. He is also chief executive and co-founder of the Teachers’ Institute. Mr Ferguson has been a board member of the New Zealand Qualifications Authority since 2024. He will step down from all these roles before starting as ERO chief executive on 13 July.
From 2010 to 2025, he was headmaster of Westlake Boys’ High School, where he led a large and high‑performing school community.
Earlier in his career, Mr Ferguson held senior leadership and teaching roles in New Zealand and the United Kingdom, including The King’s School, Grantham.
Mr Ferguson has also held a range of governance and advisory roles across the education sector, including with the International Boys’ Schools Coalition and the NCEA Professional Advisory Group.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Sports Studies from Staffordshire University, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from Loughborough University, and a Postgraduate Diploma in School Management from Unitec.
