Eastwood fan is new schools inspector

A headteacher who cited Clint Eastwood as a role model for school leaders is set to be named as the new chief inspector for schools. Sir Michael Wilshaw, who has a remarkable record in turning round failing schools, is expected to be given the job as head of Ofsted, the education standards watchdog.

The Education Secretary, Michael Gove, is known to have been wooing Sir Michael to take on the role for several months.

He is principal of Mossbourne Academy in Hackney, east London, where 10 students were offered places at Oxford or Cambridge for the first time ever this year.

The school took over from Hackney Downs Boys' School, the first to be closed under new legislation giving powers to close failing schools. Prior to that he was knighted for his services to education after turning round another failing school in Newham.

He has always believed in a traditional approach to education – putting on emphasis on a firm approach to discipline and the wearing of school uniform.

At a conference earlier this year, he said being a headteacher was all about being the "lone warrior", like Clint Eastwood in the film Pale Rider.