Biographical details
Sir John Holman is a Professor in the Chemistry Department of the University of York. He was director of the National Science Learning Centre from 2004 to 2010, and adviser to the government as National Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM) Director. He has wide experience as an educational policymaker, curriculum developer and school principal. He was knighted in 2010, for services to education.
Notes to editors
- Professor Sir John Holman will bring the benefit of his expertise in science education to the board of the museum.
- The Natural History Museum is a scientific research institution and a major cultural attraction that welcomes nearly 5 million visitors a year, at the heart of which is the national collection of 70 million specimens from the natural world and 6 million rare books and manuscripts. These collections are of international significance and are regarded as an important part of the UK’s science infrastructure. The Natural History Museum comprises the main site at South Kensington, a small museum based in Walter Rothschild’s former home at Tring and a storage centre at Wandsworth.
- The post is not remunerated. Reasonable expenses can be claimed.
- The appointment has been made in accordance with the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments (OCPA) Code of Practice. Appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. Professor Sir John Holman has not undertaken any significant political activity during the past 5 years.