SEA Chief Evaluator appointed
3 October 2019
Karen Bydell, a seasoned educationist, has been appointed as the Chief Evaluator for the School Evaluations Authority (SEA).
The purpose of the SEA is to support school improvement in the Western Cape.
Bydell has almost 45 years’ experience in education, ranging from pre-primary, primary, secondary, special and teacher training. At the time of her appointment she served as the Director of Quality Assurance within the Western Cape Education Department (WCED).
Western Cape Education Minister, Debbie Schäfer, said Bydell has a wealth of experience and has already made an exceptional contribution towards school improvement in the province. “Not only does she possess the appropriate knowledge of, or experience in education, but she also has substantial organisational leadership skills and a proven track record and experience in leading and managing change in a complex environment.”
The functions of the Chief Evaluator include the delivery of evaluations of school performance, including judgments about quality, other findings and recommendations based on sound evidence.
“I am delighted that I will have the opportunity to lead the new SEA as its inaugural Chief Evaluator. The SEA represents a tremendous opportunity to improve our schools and to raise the standard of education for our learners. I believe my experience, skills and qualities will ensure that it is established successfully, and my focus will be to build up its capacity and capability, and help it link effectively with the rest of the education system here in the Western Cape,” said Bydell.
Schäfer wished Bydell all the best for her 4-year term.
Find out more about the School Evaluation Authority: https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/school-evaluation-authority-sea-faqs