Inspiration Trust announces new Chief Executive

We are pleased to announce that Gareth Stevens has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of Inspiration Trust, succeeding Dame Rachel de Souza who will become the Children's Commissioner for England on 1st March.

Gareth Stevens is currently the trust’s Secondary Director and provides support to eight secondary schools. Previously, he was the Principal of Hethersett Academy and successfully turned the school around from special measures to outstanding within two years. Under his leadership, Hethersett Academy has become one of the top performing schools in the region.

Gareth Stevens said:

“I am delighted to be appointed as Chief Executive and look forward to
working with our family of schools to positively impact students' lives. I have the benefit of inheriting an extremely strong team from Dame Rachel and am proud to lead 14 schools at the centre of their communities.”

David Tibble, Chair of Inspiration Trust, said:

“After a rigorous recruitment process, we’re very pleased to appoint Gareth Stevens. Having worked with Gareth over an eight-year period I am confident that he can continue to build on the strong foundations already in place. Following the impact of Covid-19 on our communities and our students’ education, all the trust's resources will be needed to quickly aid their mental, physical and educational recovery.”

Dame Rachel de Souza said:

“The Inspiration Trust is very close to my heart and I’m pleased to be leaving it in safe hands. We have a dedicated team, committed to ensuring every child receives an excellent education. I’m looking forward to seeing the trust go from strength to strength under Gareth’s wonderful leadership. I will sincerely miss being at Inspiration Trust and wish everyone the very best for the future.”

In addition, the trust has announced that Lord Agnew will be re-joining as a trustee.

David Tibble said:

“We welcome our founder back to the trust as he adds to the educational expertise, so that our trustees can help to guide Gareth and his team on the next stage of our journey. We all give Dame Rachel our deepest thanks and very best wishes in her challenging new role at this critical time.”