13 Mar 2026
A former pupil has been appointed as the new headteacher of Nicholas Breakspear Catholic School – succeeding Declan Linnane in the role.
Andrew Dunne, who once walked the school’s corridors as a student, will be taking up the position at the start of the autumn term on September 1.
Currently headteacher at Newman Catholic College, Brent, for the past three years, Mr Dunne previously served as deputy and assistant headteacher at the same school.
Mr Dunne said: “Coming back to Nicholas Breakspear Catholic School as headteacher is incredibly special. This school gave me so much, and I feel hugely proud to be offered the opportunity to lead it. I am really looking forward to working with pupils, staff and families to build on everything that already makes the school such a strong community.”
Chair of Governors of Nicholas Breakspear Catholic School Mary Crummey said: “Appointing a new headteacher is a significant moment for any school, and we are delighted to welcome Andrew Dunne to our community. His vision—grounded in Catholic ethos, high expectations, inclusion, and a deep belief in every child’s potential—shone through at every stage of the process. The Governing Body and I look forward to working with him as we build on our strengths and continue to move the school forward with ambition and purpose.”
Chief executive officer of the Diocese of Westminster Academy Trust Pat Murden said: “This is a fantastic appointment for Nicholas Breakspear Catholic School. Andrew brings proven leadership experience, deep commitment to Catholic education and a genuine personal connection to the school. We are confident he will lead the school with care, ambition and integrity.”
The appointment was made by a panel including the school’s Governing Board, the Diocese of Westminster and the Diocese of Westminster Academy Trust.
