David Cumming

David has been involved with investment management all his working life primarily as a fund manager of UK Equities; also serving as a Board Director at a number of institutions, including Standard Life Investments and Aviva Investors. At present, he works for BNY Investments as Head of UK Equities. David previously served on the Boards of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and the Edinburgh Steiner School.

David’s connection with Waldorf education is close to home:

One of my brothers who lives in Germany sent his children to Steiner in Suttgart and on his recommendation, I followed suit sending my son James to Steiner in Edinburgh. He graduated in 2016. He always loved the school and still does. He now has joined the ESS staff, focusing on drama.

David endorses the Steiner Waldorf pedagogy as a relevant educational approach for young people today:

Steiner teachers are clearly committed to delivering the full potential of pupils at the school. They focus on children as individuals emotionally as well as academically. This is a unique proposition when combined with an innovative curriculum that focuses on creative learning.

Children leave school with a relatively wide, informed perspective on life and a fuller understanding of the world we live in, allowing them to go forward with confidence in seeking to fulfil the ambitions and dreams of their youth.

In support of Waldorf education in Edinburgh’s capital, David brings close to forty years of vital expertise to the Board, who are responsible for the legal, financial and employment matters of the school:

My studies of businesses as a long time investor and experience as a director hopefully allows me to help analyse and provide solutions to issues that confront the school, especially in a commercial and financial context .

Also, supported by my son ‘s association with the school, I hope I can help support the school and its teachers in continuing to deliver great outcomes for pupils both academically and as individuals.