A senior education leader and former police officer have been appointed to take on new national roles to help shape the future of The Alternative School (TAS) as it enters its 20th year.
Neil Reynolds (pictured left) has been appointed national director of Corporate Growth & Education Partnerships, a position that will see him working with Local Authorities, Multi Academy Trusts and care providers across the country to expand access to high-quality alternative provision. Whilst Sayed Naqui has taken up the role of Head of Community Engagement, Prevention and Training.
Having already served as an executive headteacher within TAS, Neil will lead the Trust’s national growth strategy, acting as a key point of contact for partners seeking
He brings with him more than 25 years of experience in education, alongside a distinguished career in North West football. Having managed clubs including FC United of Manchester and is currently First Team Manager at Warrington Rylands, he believes the principles of leadership remain the same on the pitch as they are in schools -clarity of vision, discipline, teamwork and an unwavering belief in people’s potential.
He has held senior leadership roles across the education sector, most notably leading South Shore Academy in Blackpool through a significant period of transformation, moving the school from the bottom 15 per cent nationally to a ‘Good’ judgement by Ofsted. His work has also been recognised nationally, contributing to wider discussions on school improvement and system leadership.
Neil said: “Whether it’s football or education, leadership is about belief. It’s about building a culture where people feel valued, challenged and united behind a common goal. I care deeply about the young people we serve. This isn’t just a job for me, it’s a commitment. I am incredibly passionate about making sure no child is written off or overlooked.
“TAS has spent 20 years showing what can happen when you combine high expectations with genuine care and strong relationships. I’m excited, genuinely excited, to work with partners across the country to extend that impact. We have a model that works, and I’m determined to help more young people benefit from it.”
Known for its pioneering relationship-led and hybrid educational model, TAS has built a reputation over two decades for creating supportive environments where young people can rebuild confidence and re-engage with learning. With forest schools, floating classrooms and sports academies, TAS innovative provision extends beyond the traditional classroom, ensuring education is responsive, flexible and rooted in trust.
Syed Naqui’s appointment builds on his long-standing connection with TAS, dating back to its early days. He now steps into this new role bringing more than 25 years of experience in community safety, safeguarding, violence reduction and multi‑agency leadership.
His role reflects TAS’s belief that alternative provision should not simply respond to crisis but actively work to prevent it. By engaging communities, building employer partnerships and equipping education and care professionals with the tools they need, TAS aims to widen opportunity and strengthen the safety nets around young people.
In his new role, he will strengthen links with local businesses and education providers to expand opportunities for post-16 learners, while also delivering training and preventative support that reinforces TAS’s proactive, pupil-focused ethos.
Syed (pictured right) said: “Reaching 20 years is a significant milestone. TAS has always been about relationships, trust and creating opportunity. Like Neil, I passionately believe that every single pupil has potential and something to offer. My focus is on building even stronger community partnerships and ensuring our young people are connected to meaningful pathways for the future. I’m proud to be part of what comes next.”
