TRIBUTE has been paid to a “selfless” man who was a driving force for education in Herefordshire after his death.
Heart of Mercia Multi Academy Trust said it is sorry to announce the death of the former chair of trustees, Rev Dr Kenneth Hopkins MBE, on October 23.
Having trained and worked as an Anglican priest after reading English at UCL and completing a doctorate on the 18th Century poet William Cowper, Rev Dr Hopkins embarked on a distinguished career in higher education, culminating in becoming pro-vice-chancellor of Kingston University.
Retiring to Hereford, he became a trustee of Close House and Hereford Academy before joining the governing body of Hereford Sixth Form College. During his time as chair of governors, the College was graded outstanding by Ofsted, was the first in the country to gain academy status and was the inaugural winner of the Times Education Sixth Form College of the Year award.
Jonathan Godfrey, who was principal during Rev Dr Hopkins’ time as chair, said: “Ken was a wise and supportive chair of governors, acting as a critical friend to inform its development and an enthusiastic advocate when needed.
“He took great pride in the collective and individual success of its students and enjoyed attending plays, concerts and giving mock interviews to students preparing for Oxbridge. His wisdom, kindness and humour will be sorely missed”.
Rev Dr Hopkins played a pivotal role in the creation and development of the Heart of Mercia Multi Academy Trust, transforming it from a single sixth form college in Hereford into a thriving educational trust comprising three colleges and two schools, serving over 9,000 students across the West Midlands.
As the inaugural chair he oversaw the strategic expansion of the trust, ensuring its growth and development were always aligned with the highest standards of educational excellence.
Trust CEO Peter Cooper said “Ken was a man to admire. Selfless in his public and ecclesiastical service, Ken was a real believer in and force behind what we have become as a Trust. Driving up standards, social mobility, helping young people to progress and a passion for enabling others characterised our focus. Most of all Ken knew the value of embracing life’s opportunities and having fun along the way. He will be much missed by us all.”
In January 2025, Rev Dr Hopkins was awarded an MBE in the New Years Honours list for his service to education.
