We are honoured that Prof Peter Hennessy (Lord Hennessy of Nympsfield) has agreed to become our first patron. Peter went from grammar school in Gloucestershire to become one of our leading journalists and historians.

He has already done inspiring work with Linacre students, asking them never to lose what Einstein called “a holy curiosity”, a message which sums up much of what the charity is trying to achieve.

Peter is also a crossbench, or independent, peer in the House of Lords.

His appointment is part of a rejig of the trustee board designed to ensure the charity has all the governing expertise needed to help us build on initial success.

Mike Munro, a partner at law firm CMS takes over from Dr Richard Kowenicki of Westminster School as chairman. Richard has been fundamental to the early success of the charity and we are delighted that he remains on the trustee board. His replacement Mike brings a wealth of commercial experience and a passion for seeing charities thrive.

Anne-Marie Canning, Director of Social Mobility and Student Success at King’s College, London, also joins the trustee board. Anne-Marie has pioneered some outstandingly successful programmes in widening participation at King’s.

We welcome her warmly, along with all of our new appointments.