We are delighted to announce that Dean Webster, Executive Director of Secondary Standards at Mercia Learning Trust, has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to education in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours.

Dean’s career has been defined by an unwavering commitment to championing social mobility through education. As the founding headteacher of Mercia School, he has redefined what is possible in inner-city education. His leadership has set a new benchmark for schools across the country, particularly in raising aspirations and outcomes for disadvantaged pupils.

Mercia School, which opened in 2018 under Dean’s leadership, is now a beacon of excellence. The school welcomes hundreds of educational experts each year, and without exception, visitors leave inspired by what Dean and the Mercia team have achieved. The impact of the school he built has extended far beyond Sheffield, influencing schools across the country and serving as a strong example of true system leadership.

In response to the honour, Dean said:

I am deeply honoured to be appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire for services to education.

 

As the founding headteacher of Mercia School, this award is a recognition of the dedication and commitment of the entire Mercia community. From the very beginning, our mission has been clear: to provide an exceptional education to all pupils, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, and to be persistent in our belief in their potential.

 

We have challenged the orthodoxy in education, and our outcomes show other school leaders and teachers what is possible. Educators must be brave, set sky-high expectations and, most importantly, hold the line. Sweating the small stuff changes lives.

 

Championing social mobility through education has been the defining purpose of my career. In my new role as the Executive Director of Secondary Standards, working with committed staff across our trust, we will remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, is given the very best opportunity to succeed.

 

This honour strengthens my determination to continue this important work and to advocate for a culture of high expectations within our schools, so children flourish.

Neil Miley, our CEO, said:

The school Dean built has transformed the educational landscape, having impact on schools across the country.

We are incredibly fortunate to have Dean’s expertise, knowledge and dedication at the heart of our trust.

 

His impact has already changed thousands of lives – and will undoubtedly continue to do so for many years to come.

At Mercia Learning Trust, we are committed to kindness, integrity, and diligence. We exist to empower everyone in our communities, especially the most disadvantaged, to succeed. Dean’s recognition is a powerful reflection of these values in action.