One of Kent's longest-serving education officers is to become the new chief schools adjudicator.

Dr Ian Craig, currently the county council's interim director of children's services, will take up the national post in April next year.

He has spent four decades working in Kent schools and in different posts for the county council.

The Office of the Schools Adjudicator has an increasingly important role in ensuring schools are following Government rules on admissions.

As well as ruling on disputes over admissions policies, the OSA also arbitrates where there are disagreements over school closures.

Dr Craig, who will replace Sir Philip Hunter who is retiring, has worked for Kent County Council 1989.

He began a teaching career in Gravesham and before joining KCC, had spells as a headteacher at schools in Gillingham and Dartford.

He has also worked as a schools inspector in London and before his recent appointment as interim director after the retirement of Graham Badman, was the operations director in KCC's children's, families, health and education directorate.

Children's secretary Ed Balls said: "I am delighted to be able to appoint Ian Craig to the position. His wide experience within the education sector will bring new insights to this important role."

Ian Craig said: "I'm very pleased and honoured to be asked by the Secretary of State to be the new Chief Schools Adjudicator, replacing Sir Phillip Hunter. I welcome the revised School Admissions and Appeals Codes which have recently been presented to Parliament. It will provide the context for much of my work over the next few years."

Dr Craig, who is married to a retired primary school headteacher, will not be allowed to become involved in any admissions disputes or challenges involving Kent schools.