David Ross Education Trust (DRET) is a network of unique and diverse academies across the country, committed to delivering a world-class, knowledge-rich education that empowers pupils to reach their fullest potential. Spanning North Yorkshire, East Riding, the Midlands, and London, our network of 36 academies serves over 14,600 pupils and employs 2,300 dedicated staff.
Our family of schools includes 24 primaries, 10 secondaries, an all-through school in London’s Olympic Park, and a special school in Lincolnshire supporting pupils aged 2-19 with a broad range of special educational needs. As one of only 11 system leaders nationwide, we are recognised for our unwavering commitment to educational excellence, our innovative curriculum, and ability to drive sustained school improvement at scale.
At the heart of our Mission is a deep belief in the transformative power of education. We are committed to ensuring that every child - regardless of their background - has access to an exceptional academic experience enriched by extensive co-curricular opportunities. From small rural primaries to large urban secondaries, our academies benefit from the strength of a collaborative, values-driven community, in which expertise is shared, best practices are embedded, and each school retains its distinctive character.
We now seek a dynamic and strategic CEO to succeed Stuart Burns after five years of exceptional service. The appointee will possess the vision, intellectual acumen, and clear sense of moral purpose to shape the future of education within our Trust. They will not only continue to develop and empower a high performing Executive Team but will contribute to the wider national conversation on how the multi-academy trust sector is continuing to change and grow. This is a rare opportunity to influence the lives of thousands of young people, working alongside a community of dedicated educators and professionals united by a shared commitment to excellence.
Further information and application process
To download further information on the role or to apply, please visit our website.
Applicants should submit an application addressed to David Ross, Chair, which fully addresses the competencies outlined in the and person specification and outlines their interest in DRET.
The closing date for applications is 08:30 BST on Thursday 24 April 2025. The long-list of candidates will be determined in the week commencing 28 April 2025 and longlisted candidates will be invited for interview during the weeks commencing 28 April and 5 May 2025. The shortlist of candidates will be selected in the week commencing 12 May 2025 and shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend a final selection process with DRET in the week commencing 19 May 2025.
The David Ross Education Trust is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment for our students and staff.
It is our objective to ensure that job applicants and staff are treated solely on the basis of their merits, abilities and potential. We do not discriminate against any applicants on the basis of any protected characteristics.
The David Ross Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo vetting appropriate to the post, including a social media presence check and Enhanced DBS check. The successful applicant will be expected to adhere to all safeguarding, welfare and health and safety policies and procedures of the Trust.
All pre-employment checks are in line with "Keeping Children Safe in Education" statutory guidance.