16 February 2026
The head of a north-east education trust who was named in the recent New Year Honours has returned to the University
The head of a north-east education trust who was named in the recent New Year Honours has returned to the University of Sunderland where his journey started over 30 years ago.
Brendan Tapping, Chief Executive of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust, visited the University, 35 years after he graduated with a BA (Hons) in Combined Arts.
Since graduating in 1991, Brendan has had a range of roles across the education sector, including as an executive headteacher. He was recognised for his outstanding contribution to education by being awarded an OBE in the recent New Year Honours.
Returning to the University, Brendan had a chance to visit the many facilities on campus, including the Anatomy Centre and Helen McArdle House.
Brendan said: “Without the opportunity to study for my degree at the University of Sunderland, I would not have been able to undertake my career in education. I have a huge affinity for my roots in the north-east, the coal mining heritage of my family, the people of the north-east and the city of Sunderland. It is a great place to live and work.
“I am also thrilled that my services to education in the region have been acknowledged through the award of an OBE by the King. You are only as good as the people you work with, and I’ve been fortunate to work alongside many wonderful colleagues - past and present.”
Alongside his role at the Trust, Brendan is also on various boards, including Schools North East, Housing Innovation and Construction Skills Academy (HICSA, Sunderland), Teach First Strategy Board, and the Regional Schools Commissioner CEO Board.
Dr Ben Middleton, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Faculty of Education, Society and Creative Industries at the University, said: “It is a pleasure to welcome Brendan back to the University. His commitment to education, his leadership across the region, and the recognition he has received through the award of an OBE are testament to his impact and dedication.
“We are immensely proud to count him among our alumni, and his journey serves as a powerful example to our students of where a Sunderland degree can lead.”
If you are interested in studying Primary Education at the University of Sunderland, find out more here.