Neil took a degree in Economics from Cambridge University and, forsaking the attractions of a career in finance, trained as a teacher at the University of Leicester. He 'learned his craft' at King Henry VIII School, Coventry and then moved up the career ladder in Essex and Suffolk with a series of steps as Head of Department, Head of Sixth Form and Deputy Headteacher. In this role of Deputy Head he had the opportunity to work with local and national architects on the rebuilding of the 'flagship' school of Suffolk County Council - Northgate High School, Ipswich. Following this he moved to become Headteacher of Sudbury Upper School before returning to Northgate as Head in 1992. Following retirement from Headship, he moved to a consultant head role within Suffolk County Council in September 2009, combining that with his position as a Board member of Ofqual. He has recently joined the Press Complaints Commission as a Public Commissioner.