After more than a decade of exceptional leadership, support and service, Tessa Mason OBE will step down as Chair of Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust in December 2026.
Since becoming Chair in January 2016, Tessa has been an unwavering champion of BDAT, guiding the Trust through a period of remarkable growth and development.
During her tenure, BDAT has evolved from a trust of around half a dozen schools into the large and thriving family of schools it is today. Throughout that journey, Tessa has remained steadfast in her commitment to ensuring that every decision has been rooted in improving opportunities and outcomes for children and young people, perfectly reflecting our Trust ICARE values and drive to put children first.
Her impact on our Trust has been immense. Tessa has helped to build and strengthen a highly effective and well-respected Trust Board. She has developed strong and supportive relationships with local governing bodies and Chairs and played a central role in the appointment of many of our Headteachers and senior leaders. Tessa has stood alongside schools through countless Ofsted inspections, celebrated our successes, navigated our challenges and consistently provided wise counsel and encouragement.
A highly respected educational leader nationally, Tessa brought to BDAT a wealth of expertise, strategic insight and deep understanding of the education landscape. Her influence extends far beyond our Trust, and it was fitting that in 2025 she was awarded an OBE in The King’s Birthday Honours in recognition of her outstanding service to education.
Next steps
While we will be sad to see Tessa step down, we are pleased that succession planning has been carefully considered to ensure continuity and stability for the Trust. Following a thorough review, the Board has agreed to introduce a Co-Chair model, recognising that replacing someone of Tessa’s calibre and breadth of experience is a responsibility best shared.
Current Vice-Chairs, Denise Sterling and Richard Giles, will step into the role as Co-Chairs from January 2027. Together, they bring complementary strengths and extensive experience of BDAT. Richard’s expertise in finance, operations and governance, alongside his leadership of the Trust’s Finance Committee, will provide continued strategic and financial oversight. Denise, a long-serving Chair of one of our secondary schools, brings a deep understanding of education, a passionate commitment to Bradford and its communities, and a strong track record of championing the needs and aspirations of young people. Tessa will also stay on supporting BDAT as a Member of the Trust.
Both have worked closely with Tessa and Carol for many years and are committed to building on the strong foundations she has helped create. Their appointment will ensure that BDAT continues to benefit from experienced, values-led leadership as the Trust enters its next chapter.
So as we look ahead, we do so with gratitude for Tessa’s remarkable contribution and confidence in the future.
On behalf of everyone across Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust, we thank Tessa for her years of dedicated service, leadership and friendship, and wish her every happiness and success in the years ahead.
