CHULMLEIGH Academy Trust has paid tribute to Steve Baber, who has died following more than a decade of dedicated service as Chair of the Trust Board.

Steve died at the end of the summer holiday.

He had been associated with Chulmleigh Academy Trust since its foundation and served as Chair from 2013 until July 2026.

During his time with the Trust, Steve became a much-loved and respected figure among pupils, staff, governors, families and the wider community.

For many, he was a symbol of “stability, continuity, wisdom and kindness”, providing both strong leadership and quiet reassurance during times of change and challenge.

Steve was a passionate advocate for young people and believed deeply in the power of education to improve life chances. He was particularly committed to ensuring that pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds received the opportunities they needed to fulfil their potential.

He was clear that this meant more than simply offering care and encouragement.

Mr Neil Payne, Headteacher and Trust Chief Executive, recalled, Steve believed that young people needed “a good education and qualifications to gain the opportunities that children from more privileged families enjoy and take for granted.”

“Steve recognised that education was a force for positive change and was adamant that all pupils should fulfil their potential,” he added.

“Steve leaves a legacy in this Trust for all those pupils whose life chances were improved because they came to our schools.”

Steve also played an important role in supporting the Trust's school leaders. Mr Payne said that, like many senior staff across the Trust, he had been appointed by Steve and had benefited greatly from his encouragement, advice and constructive challenge.

“The particular ability that Steve had was to be supportive without smothering and challenging without offending,” said Neil.

“He was very clear about the values of this Trust and the importance it placed on care and achievement, and he held the leadership to these standards.”

Steve was affectionately known as the Headteachers' “wingman”, a role which Neil said helped make the challenging job of running schools feel easier.

“There was something incredibly reassuring about having Steve as our Chair,” he said. “I always knew I could rely on his support, even when making a difficult decision – as long as it was the right one.”

Steve's commitment to the community was equally strong. He cared deeply about West and East Worlington and was involved in many aspects of community life.

“Steve was at the centre of so much that is good in this community,” said Neil. “We are saying goodbye to such a good friend and neighbour.”

Mr Payne said: “Like many of us, I will remember Steve with such affection and fondness. As much as we will miss the man, we must also celebrate all that he did and all that he was.

“The contribution that Steve has made to this community will live on for a very, very long time.”

Chulmleigh Academy Trust extends its deepest condolences to Steve's family, friends and all those who knew and loved him.