After 14 years of dedicated service to Mercia Learning Trust, Phil Smith, the Chair of the Board of Trustees, will be stepping down at the end of the 2023-24 academic year.

Phil, whose children attended King Ecgbert School, joined its Governing Body in 2010 and became Chair in 2012. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of Mercia Learning Trust in 2012 and has served with distinction as Chair of the Trust Board and a Member since then.

The roles of governor, trustee, and member are entirely voluntary. Over the years, Phil has invested a significant amount of his personal time and energy in supporting our schools and trust, contributing to its growth and success. Phil brought wisdom, common sense, perspective, organisation, support, and challenge to his role. He worked closely with CEOs Lesley Bowes and Chris French, maintaining a sharp focus on the trust's moral purpose, mission, and vision. He ensured that governance efforts were always centred on the impact of schools and the trust on every child.

Phil will continue to serve as a Member, which is a critical but more 'hands-off' governance role.

On behalf of pupils, parents, staff, leaders, governors, and trustees, we extend our profound thanks for his exceptional contribution.

The position of Chair of Trustees will formally transfer to Rhona Dodds at the end of July.