A former headmaster of an elite independent school has appeared in court, accused of using school funds to pay for personal expenses including prestigious cricket tickets and the use of a digger.
Court Appearance and Specific Allegations
Julian Johnson-Munday, 63, stood before Westminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday charged with one count of fraud by false representation. The charge, brought under the Fraud Act 2006, details that on 18 July 2023 in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, he dishonestly made false representations.
The prosecution alleges he used the school's credit card for personal gain, specifically for tickets to Lord's Cricket Ground and accommodation at the East India Company. He is also accused of using school property, namely a digger, for his own use without permission. The total value of the alleged fraud is stated as £2,724.50.
Long Tenure at Prestigious Suffolk School
Johnson-Munday had worked at Culford School in Suffolk for almost two decades, a total of 19 years. The mixed-gender school, which charges up to £36,000 per year in fees, is set within a 480-acre estate. He was living on-site at the time of the alleged offences.
The school itself is housed in an 18th-century mansion at Culford Park and was named one of Britain's six most architecturally beautiful schools by Tatler magazine in 2019. Its reputation is such that the Prince and Princess of Wales were understood to have considered it for Prince George.
Suspension and Adjourned Hearing
The headmaster was suspended from his post in January 2023 when an investigation into his conduct was first launched. During this week's brief hearing, no plea was entered. The case has been adjourned and is scheduled to resume on 27 January for further proceedings.
The school's notable alumni include Members of Parliament, finance chiefs, a former chairman of Rolls-Royce, and the late sports broadcaster John Motson.
