Paul Rickeard, CEO at the Durham and Newcastle Diocesan Learning Trust, has been recognised in the 2026 New Years Honours list with an OBE.
Paul has worked in education for almost 24 years the last seven of them as CEO of the Trust working closely with 21 schools (soon to be 22) spanning eight Local Authorities, employing over five hundred staff but most importantly educating almost four thousand Primary School age children.
All of our schools are different, but they are all equally anchored in the community they serve making sure that every child matters and no one is ever left behind. Prior to that he was Diocesan Director of Education for the Dioceses of Durham and Newcastle.
Paul 51, married to Liane is also a dad of three boys Jack, Harry and Tom and stepdad to two girls Holly and Tess. Paul started his career in education as a Teaching Assistant in a secondary school in Newcastle and has since worked in several schools as a Headteacher and then Local Leader in Education. Paul currently sits on the CEO Advisory Group to the Department of Education.
Paul said: “I am really proud and honoured to be made an OBE. However, this award is also about the amazing teams and my family who have supported me throughout my life”.
Born in Newcastle upon Tyne Paul now lives in the small village of Acomb in Northumberland. When not working in the trust he enjoys a gentle jog, walking his two dogs Meg and Simba and spending time with his family and friends.