Bradford Cathedral is to host a memorial service on Wednesday (November 30th) for popular head teacher Gareth Dawkins who died suddenly in October.
Bradford Academy, the Church of England Academy which Mr Dawkins led from its opening in 2007, will be closed for the day, to enable staff to attend the service which will take place at 3.30pm.
Mr Dawkins died in October, aged 58, after suffering two major heart attacks while on a half-term break in Suffolk.
He had been well known in Bradford, helping establish the academy as executive principal and having a hand in the success of several other schools in the district.
The Bishop of Bradford, Rt Revd Toby Howarth has paid tribute this week to Mr Dawkins. He said, “Gareth’s energy, enthusiasm and determination made him hugely influential in establishing Bradford Academy, and gave him a strong voice in championing quality education for children and young people from all backgrounds across the city.
“He was a passionate leader, advocate and friend, and is greatly missed by many across the city, region and country.”
Wednesday afternoon’s service is for school staff, and will also be attended by heads and school leaders from across the district.
The message to students, staff and parents on the Bradford Academy website says: “Mr Dawkins was influential both across the district and nationally, and in order to celebrate his life and work there will be a memorial service at Bradford Cathedral on Wednesday, November 30, at 3.30pm.
“The academy will be closed on this day to all students so that all staff can attend the service and as a mark of respect to a man who made a difference to so many lives.”