Former Private School Head Denies Fraud Over Lord’s Cricket Tickets

A former head teacher at a leading private school has denied fraud charges after prosecutors alleged school funds were used to cover personal expenses, including tickets to watch cricket at Lord’s. Julian Johnson-Munday, who spent nearly two decades leading Culford School in Suffolk, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court where he pleaded not guilty to fraud by false representation. The court heard that the 63 year old is accused of making several payments on the school’s credit card for non school purposes and of using school owned equipment without permission. Prosecutors allege the transactions included cricket tickets, accommodation costs and the personal use of a digger, with the total value put at just over £2,700. Johnson-Munday confirmed his personal details in court and formally denied the charge, electing for the case to be heard by a jury rather than dealt with at magistrates level.

Details of the allegation were outlined during the brief hearing, with the charge stating that Johnson-Munday is accused of intentionally making a gain for himself by misusing school resources while in a position of trust. The court was told the alleged offences took place while he was employed as head teacher at Culford School near Bury St Edmunds, an independent boarding and day school set within extensive grounds. The case was not contested at this stage, with no evidence presented, as proceedings focused on administrative matters including plea and next steps. District Judge Sam Goozee granted unconditional bail, allowing Johnson-Munday to remain at liberty while the case progresses through the courts. He is scheduled to appear next at Norwich Crown Court later next month, where the matter will move to a more detailed stage.

Culford School, which charges annual fees running into tens of thousands of pounds, confirmed it is aware of the ongoing legal proceedings involving its former head teacher and said it is cooperating fully with the authorities. Johnson-Munday worked at the school for 19 years before being suspended in early 2023. The school has produced several high profile former pupils across politics, business and sport, adding to the public interest surrounding the case. In a statement, the school said it would not comment further while criminal proceedings remain active. The case highlights wider scrutiny of governance and financial controls within independent schools, particularly where senior staff have access to institutional funds and property.