Olympus Academy Trust pays tribute to CEO following sudden death

Olympus Academy Trust has announced the unexpected death of chief executive officer Dave Baker, which prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and education leaders across the south west.  

Baker, who founded the South Gloucestershire-based trust in 2012, led the organisation through more than a decade of expansion and was widely regarded as a key figure in the regional education and charity sectors. 

The trust said the loss would be “profoundly felt” across its entire Olympus network, sector, and “all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him”.

Baker began his career as a teacher of French and German in schools across Bristol and the surrounding area. He became the first headteacher of Bradley Stoke Community School in 2005, a role he held until establishing the Olympus Academy Trust seven years later.

Under his leadership, the trust grew to include multiple primary and secondary schools, educating more than 6,500 pupils and employing around 800 staff.

Baker also held several regional and national education roles. He was a national policy advisor for the Confederation of School Trusts, chair of the Five Counties Teaching School Hubs Alliance, vice-chair of the South Gloucestershire Schools Forum, a member of Venturers Trust, and advisor to the Diocese of Salisbury Academy Trust.

Outside education, he chaired the Bristol City Robins Foundation and served as a referee with the West of England Basketball Association.

Sarah Williams, chair of the Olympus Academy Trust board, said: “Dave was a remarkable and inspirational leader whose unwavering commitment and passion shaped Olympus into what it is today.

“He guided us through transformative growth, championed collaboration and had a commitment to making a meaningful difference. Whether in the boardroom or walking the halls in our schools, he led with vision and a contagious passion.”

She added: “He never missed a chance to celebrate successes or offer a word of encouragement to learners and staff alike. His legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come.”

Lucy Livings, regional director for the Department for Education, said: “Dave was a very special person – one of a kind – and will be greatly missed by me and my team.

“Dave has given so much to the education system across the south west, well beyond his schools and trust, and leaves a legacy of system partnership that I, and I know many others, are indebted to him for.”

Baker is survived by his family, who have requested privacy as they grieve.