Towards the end of the summer term, in the beautiful surroundings of Thatchers’ Orchard, staff and trustees – past and present – came together to celebrate the extraordinary contribution of Brian Kirkup to the Wessex Learning Trust, as he steps down as Chair of the Trust Board.
The event, put on by the Trust, marked a significant moment for the Trust, with Brian having been Chair of the Board since the Trust’s formation in 2016.
As well as time to catch up and enjoy light refreshments, Chief Executive Gavin Ball led celebrations with a speech honouring Brian’s contribution to education, with incoming Chair of the Board, Paul Jacobs, also saying a few words to thank Brian for his leading of the Trust Board
Brian was also presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award to honour his extraordinary impact on the Trust and education, and to serve as a memento of his time as Chair. He has also had one of the Trust’s office spaces names ‘The Kirkup’ in his honour.
Brian has dedicated almost his entire life to education and improving the prospect of young people. Having spent his career a teacher, and later Headteacher, in schools across the country, in his retirement he became a governor, and then chair of governors at the Kings of Wessex Academy. In 2016, alongside then Kings Headteacher Chris Richardson, Brian was instrumental in the creation of the Wessex Learning Trust, for which he has served as the Chair of the Board of Trustees from its foundation. In his time as Chair of the Board, Brian has overseen the Wessex Learning Trust grow from a handful of local schools to a group of nineteen (and growing) across Somerset and North Somerset, serving children aged between 6 months and 19 years old. Beyond his direct involvements with education, Brian has also worked to support young people through his work with organisations such as the Rotary Club, and through his involvement with the Gabblers Club after-dinner speaking competition.
Chief Executive, Gavin Ball, commented on Brian and the event:
“I have had the great honour to work with Brian during our overlapping times together at the Trust, and have learnt a great deal from him. I know that his extraordinary impact stretches far beyond simply his role as Chair of the Board and has touched many lives. I am delighted that we have been able to come together to celebrate Brian’s contributions and know that despite him stepping back from the role of chair, his influence and impact will continue to be felt for a long time to come”
The Trust is incredibly grateful for Brian’s exceptional contribution to the organisation and young people in general. While he will naturally be missed as he dials back his involvement with the Trust, we also wish him well with his plans for the future.
As well as enjoying some newfound free-time, Brian will continue as a Member of the Trust Board, as well as Director and Board Chairman of Kings Fitness and Leisure.
