CEO of DRET to Step Down After 5 Years

The Board of the David Ross Education Trust (DRET) today announces that after five years under his leadership, chief executive Stuart Burns will be stepping down from his role in the Autumn term.  

Under his stewardship, DRET has enjoyed a successful period of growth, investment and stability,  notably improving its Ofsted profile with in excess of 90% of its grades at Good/Outstanding, while continuing to excel in its focus on music and sport, both hallmarks of a DRET education.  

David Ross, Chair of the trust said:  

“It has been a real pleasure to work with Stuart in the capacity of CEO over the last 5 years. Throughout his tenure, Stuart has exemplified wise leadership, drawing on decades of experience in the sector to guide us through what have been challenging times for the education sector as a whole.   

“DRET is in a much stronger position as a result – not just in Ofsted terms but in how we focus on the aspects of education that we believe make the biggest difference in life; building on strong pastoral care, a knowledge-rich curriculum, together with excellence in sport, music and civic leadership.      

“On behalf of the Board and the wider organisation, I’d like to thank Stuart for his contribution and unwavering commitment, which positions us well as we move to the next stage”. 

Stuart Burns said:  

“Serving as CEO of DRET has been an immense privilege. I first worked for the trust as the founding principal of Bobby Moore Academy from 2014-2018 and it was a real honour to return as the Trusts CEO in 2020.   

“Over the past five years, I have witnessed first-hand the power of innovation  in the work we do to transform our schools.  I am very proud of the work that the DRET team do, day-in day-out to broaden young people’s horizons and help them discover just what is possible to achieve.  

“DRET is a strong trust, and it has been humbling to see how far the organisation has come thanks to the superb talent we have across all our schools and the dedicated support services we run. Seeing the trust grow has been a particular highlight – two schools joined us last year and I am confident that others will follow.  

“I leave knowing that the dedicated staff, supportive board, and engaged community will continue to drive our mission forward and I will remain on hand as long as is deemed necessary to ensure a smooth handover.”  

The Board now begins the search process for his successor, aiming to secure a leader who can build on this strong foundation and continue the trust’s upward trajectory.