LDST announces new CEO

The Liverpool Diocesan Schools Trust (LDST) has announced the appointment of Laurie Kwissa as its new CEO.

Following two years as the trust education officer, Laurie will take over from Father Richard Peers and will continue to lead the family of 16 schools which are part of the trust, as well as building further partnerships and collaborations with schools in the Diocese of Liverpool.

Laurie’s experience is extensive and has spent most of it working in and with schools, with a focus on how to make a difference to young people.

From an NQT in the London Borough of Hillingdon and responsibility as an English Subject Leader, she then went on to two very different deputy headteacher roles. Working in demographically different areas, enabled her to research and learn first-hand how teachers and schools can support pupils in overcoming barriers so that they can aspire and achieve.

She later became a headteacher which made her realise all teachers should receive high quality CPD in order to ensure quality teaching and learning for all.

She has also worked both nationally and in the city of Liverpool, to gain an understanding of assessment for learning and the importance of transition at key points in a child’s continuous learning journey. From this, she has learnt the importance of relationships and collaboration in this challenging and ever-changing sector.

Laurie said: “I am delighted to have been appointed as CEO of the Liverpool Diocesan Schools Trust. It is such a privilege and honour to work with our dedicated central team of experts and alongside 16 incredible schools and headteachers – and I look forward to even more partnership work and collaboration as we embark on the next stage of our journey together.

Laurie added: “I am also thrilled to be able to continue to draw upon the knowledge, expertise and guidance of Fr Richard Peers, within his role as a Trustee of the Trust and his pivotal position of Director of Education for the Diocese.”