Steve, who semi-retired in 2024 after a 25-year career in corporate finance and investment, is also a trustee of both Birmingham Royal Ballet and Warwickshire Cricket Foundation.

Damian Kelly said: “There are few things more important than children’s education. Serving as Chair has always been - and continues to be - an incredibly rewarding role, but I believe that this is the right time for fresh leadership to take the helm.

“Steve holds a deep affection for the school as the parent of two former pupils. He also brings with him valuable new thinking and ideas. I know he will make a tangible and positive difference to Solihull, bringing his considerable professional experience to bear in safeguarding a thriving and successful long-term future for Solihull, and I wish him all the very best for his tenure.”

Added Steve: “Solihull is a much-admired school, one that has deservedly earned its reputation for excellence, both by offering an enriching and diverse all-round education and by being ranked in the 1% of schools nationwide for the difference it makes to every pupil’s academic progress and results.

“I am excited at the prospect of contributing my skills and experience to the work of the Governing Board and School Leadership Team, led by Headmaster Charles Fillingham, as we embrace the opportunities and challenges which lie ahead.”

There will be a handover period during the Christmas Term, before Steve chairs his first Board Meeting in January 2027.