Meridian Trust pays tribute to retiring chair of trustees Shirley Jamieson
After 20 years helping to shape and guide Meridian Trust, Shirley Jamieson is retiring from her role as Chair of Trustees.
Shirley has played a pivotal role in the development and growth of the Trust, having served as Chair of Trustees at Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust (CMAT) for over a decade before continuing in the role following its transition to Meridian Trust.
During her time as Chair, Shirley has overseen a period of significant growth and transformation, supporting the Trust’s ambition to provide high-quality education for young people across its communities. Her leadership, insight and unwavering commitment to education have helped strengthen the Trust’s culture, governance and long-term vision.
Alongside her work with Meridian Trust, Shirley enjoyed a distinguished career spanning business, higher education, entrepreneurship and innovation, including senior leadership roles at Cambridge Enterprise.
Mark Woods, CEO of Meridian Trust, said: “Shirley has made an extraordinary contribution to Meridian Trust over many years, and it has been a privilege to work alongside her. Her leadership, wisdom and unwavering commitment to improving opportunities for young people have helped shape the Trust into the organisation it is today.
“Throughout her time as Chair, Shirley has brought a rare combination of strategic insight, integrity and genuine care for our schools and communities. She has always championed the importance of education in transforming lives and has been a steadfast supporter of our staff, pupils and leaders.
“On behalf of everyone across Meridian Trust, I would like to thank Shirley for her outstanding service, dedication and leadership. While we will miss her immensely in her role as Chair of Trustees, we are delighted that she will continue to support Meridian Trust as a Member of the Trust Board, ensuring the Trust continues to benefit from her experience and guidance in the years ahead.”
Shirley added: “It has been an enormous privilege to serve as Chair of Trustees for both Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust and now Meridian Trust over the past twenty years. During that time, I have had the opportunity to work with exceptional staff, leaders and trustees who are deeply committed to improving the life chances of young people.
“I am incredibly proud of what the Trust has achieved together; not only in terms of growth, but in creating strong schools and communities where children and young people can thrive. Education has the power to transform lives and it has been inspiring to see the dedication, talent and care shown every day across our schools.
“I would like to thank everyone I have worked with over the years for their support, professionalism and shared commitment to delivering the very best for pupils and families.”
A new Chair of Trustees will be appointed at the first Trustee meeting of the new academic year in September, with further updates to follow.