Ian Skillen graduated from the University of Hull with an honours degree in geology before going on to Loughborough to do his teacher training in PE and Geography.
His teaching career began at Gosforth High School in Newcastle before moving to Netherhall School in Maryport where he became Deputy Head. Following retirement he moved to Kirkby Lonsdale in 2009. His interest in education led to him joining the governing body in 2012.
His subsequent assignment to the curriculum sub-committee allowed him to utilise his experience in curriculum and data analysis. Ian has also been a magistrate since 2007 and sits on the South Cumbria Bench, as a Presiding Justice, in both the Adult and Youth Courts.
As a keen rugby enthusiast Ian represents Cumbria on the England Schools RFU, which together with his background in the justice system led to his appointment as the RFU National Age Grade Discipline Secretary in 2017.