Leadership Update and Positive Start to Claires Court’s Next Chapter

Claires Court has begun an exciting new chapter following its recent change of ownership to the LTC Education Group (LTCEG), with a number of leadership developments announced as part of the next stage in the school’s future.

The first few weeks as part of the LTC Education Group have been very positive. Members of the LTCEG leadership team have spent time across the school meeting colleagues, learning more about how Claires Court operates day to day and building relationships with staff and the wider community.

These early conversations have reinforced what makes Claires Court such a special place: a strong sense of identity, a dedicated team of staff and a culture that places pupils firmly at the centre of everything it does.

As part of the school’s evolving leadership structure, long-serving Principal James Wilding has assumed the new role of Principal Emeritus.

James has led Claires Court for many years and has played a central role in shaping the school into the vibrant and successful community it is today. He was also instrumental in securing the school’s long-term future through its recent change of ownership to the LTC Education Group.

In his new ambassadorial and externally focused role, James will support strategic initiatives that help further develop the school’s educational offer, facilities, and partnerships, reporting into CEO, Chris Welham. He will also work to strengthen relationships across the wider community and support projects that enhance opportunities for pupils.

Alongside this change, Steve Richards has been promoted to Principal with immediate effect.

Steve brings extensive experience and deep knowledge of Claires Court and the wider school community. In his new role he will work across all three sites, taking on full operational leadership and day-to-day management of the school, working closely with Christine Cunniffe, Executive Principal of LTC Education Group. He will be supported by his existing leadership team, including Vicky Ruddick, who is promoted to the role of Vice Principal, ensuring continuity while further strengthening the leadership structure.

This leadership structure ensures continuity for pupils, staff and families while also providing a strong platform for the next stage of Claires Court’s development.

Speaking about the announcement, Chris Welham, Chief Executive of the Licensed Trade Charity, said:

“James has provided outstanding leadership to Claires Court and has played a pivotal role in shaping the school into the vibrant community it is today. His vision and commitment have left a lasting legacy, and we are delighted that he will continue to contribute to the school’s future in the role of Principal Emeritus.”

Christine Cunniffe added:

“The first few weeks have been extremely positive. We have been warmly welcomed by staff and have been impressed by the professionalism, care and commitment that underpin the Claires Court community. The school has a strong identity and a dedicated team, and we are excited to support the next stage of its development.”

Claires Court will continue to operate with the same staff, curriculum, and day-to-day school experience for pupils. Over time, being part of the LTC Education Group will also bring opportunities for wider collaboration between schools, shared expertise and future investment in the school’s facilities and educational provision.

The Claires Court community now looks ahead with confidence to the next stage in the school’s development.

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