Birmingham's beleaguered schools and academies are to be overseen by former chief inspector of schools Sir Mike Tomlinson.

Education secretary Nicky Morgan announced Tomlinson's appointment as education commissioner yesterday tasking the former chair of the Hackney Education Trust with ensuring improvements following the Trojan Horse scandal.

Tomlinson will also address concerns raised by Ian Kershaw's investigation into the town hall, which found evidence of serious governance failures over schools and malpractice in a number of governors.

Birmingham's chief executive Mark Rogers said: 'The education secretary's appointment of Sir Mike Tomlinson is a good decision for Birmingham.

'His experience and reputation give us confidence that we will be constructively supported and challenged in our efforts to move forward at pace from the recent controversies.

'We have already had a positive experience of working with our safeguarding commissioner Lord Warner, and we look forward to an equally productive relationship with Sir Mike in his new role.'

Morgan said: 'I am pleased that we have been able to appoint someone of Sir Mike Tomlinson's calibre and experience to this crucial role.

'With his strong track record in local government and education he is the right person to ensure all children in Birmingham receive the education they deserve, so they can reach their potential and go on to build a better future.

'His skills and experience will help deliver rapid and sustainable progress within Birmingham City Council so they are unified in driving up the quality of schools and school oversight in the region.'