CEO Paul Rickeard Awarded OBE in the King’s New Year Honours List 2026

The Durham and Newcastle Diocesan Learning Trust is proud to announce that our Chief Executive Officer, Paul Rickeard, has been awarded an OBE in His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours List 2026.

The New Year Honours recognise individuals for their hard work, dedication and exceptional achievements. This year’s list places a particular focus on those who have championed their communities.

The 2026 Honours List includes 1,157 recipients from across the UK, representing a wide range of sectors and professions. Many recipients are recognised for their dedication to public service, education, charity, and improving the lives of others, including several from the North East.

Reflecting on the award, Paul expressed his gratitude to the wider Trust community:

“I am honoured and humbled to have been awarded an OBE in His Majesty The King’s New Year 2026 Honours List. I want to also recognise and celebrate the incredible hard work and commitment of each of our primary schools, our Head Teachers and all of our teaching and support staff, including the Trust’s dedicated central team, in serving our amazing local communities, students and families. Thank you to all who have supported the DND Learning Trust!" 

This recognition marks an incredible start to 2026 for the Trust, and we can’t wait to see what the new year brings.