The Ministry of Education has announced the appointment of Dr Winsome Gordon as senior director of the Jamaica Teaching Council (JTC).

Gordon holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Education and a bachelor's degree in education from the University of the West Indies. She is also a graduate of Church Teachers' College.

"Dr Gordon brings to the Ministry extensive international experience gained during more than 18 years (1988-2006) with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organi-sation (UNESCO)," the Ministry said in a release.

Between 1981 and 1984, she served the Ministry of Education as an assistant chief education officer with responsibility for planning, research, and statistics.

Instrumental in establishment of HEART

During her tenure she was instrumental in the establishment of the Human Employment and Resource Training Programme, the precursor to HEART Trust/NTA.

The JTC has been mandated to uphold and enhance the quality of teaching in Jamaica in order to raise the aspirations and attainment of learners.

It is intended that the council will do this through the maintenance of high professional standards and the advancement of the status and profile of teachers and principals.

As the executive arm of the Teachers' Service Commission, the JTC will regulate, register and license members of the teaching profession.

It will also review and oversee conditions of service as well as provide advice on teacher supply and deployment.

Gordon's appointment follows that of Elaine Foster Allen as chief inspector for the National Educational Inspec-torate. The appointments form part of the Education Trans-formation Programme.

Gordon's appointment follows that of Elaine Foster Allen as chief inspector for the National Educational Inspectorate.