Leadership

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  Lizann Lowson

  CEO and Accounting Officer

  

  Lizann Lowson

  CEO and Accounting Officer

  As CEO of The Consortium Academy Trust, I am privileged to lead a talented team dedicated to empowering children and young people to realise ambitions beyond what they ever thought possible. My career in education has spanned teaching and leadership roles across further and higher education, with a central focus on curriculum excellence, quality, and holistic learner support.

  Secondary school trained at Queens University Belfast, I hold a Masters in Education.  I am a reflective leader who values continuous professional development, particularly in coaching to strengthen leadership and team growth. I am driven by a deep commitment to inclusion and creating personalised opportunities for those who are disadvantaged, ensuring every young person can flourish. This ethos also guides my role as Chair of Trustees for Downright Special, a charity supporting children with Down syndrome in Hull and the East Riding.

  Passionate about connecting with diverse communities, I believe strongly in the power of different perspectives to enrich our understanding. One of my most memorable experiences was cycling 1,050km across the Himalayas, meeting Tibetan and Nepalese communities along the way - an excellent reminder of the possibilities that arise when we challenge ourselves.

Corporate Leadership

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  Amanda Bridgeman

  Director of People Services

  

  Amanda Bridgeman

  Director of People Services

  With over 25 years of People Services/HR experience spanning both private and public sector organisations, I bring a wealth of expertise in people strategy, organisational development and employee engagement. I have a collaborative leadership style and a sound understanding of the importance of workplace culture. I have successfully led transformative People Service initiatives that drive performance, inclusion and growth.

  Throughout my career to date, I have held senior roles across a diverse range of industries, consistently championing the employee voice and building strong, values-led teams. Whether navigating complex change or shaping long-term people plans, I remain focused on delivering sustainable outcomes that benefit both individuals and the wider organisation.

  Outside of work, I am a passionate animal lover and advocate. I enjoy time with a house and garden full of furry companions.

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  David Brooke

  Director of Infrastructure

  

  David Brooke

  Director of Infrastructure

  I am proud to serve as the Director of Infrastructure at The Consortium Academy Trust, leading four key operational functions: IT, Estates, Data, and Reprographics. Over the years, I have held various roles across these areas, building extensive knowledge and experience that support the Trust’s strategic and operational success. It’s an exciting time for The Consortium Academy Trust as I lead our digital transformation journey. Through innovation and collaboration, we’re modernising our systems, improving data-driven decision-making, and enhancing digital experiences for staff and students alike. This transformation is not only reshaping how we work but also strengthening our infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing, forward-thinking Trust.

  I began my career in IT at a local secondary school near where I grew up in Leeds. Over time, the role evolved as the school’s IT provision developed, and I later TUPE transferred to a Managed Service Provider. This experience provided a broader perspective on service delivery across multiple educational settings and helped lay the foundation for my future leadership in infrastructure and digital transformation.

  In 2010, I moved to Hull, where I held various IT roles as part of the Hull Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme. This period was instrumental in expanding my technical expertise and understanding of large-scale educational infrastructure projects, working alongside multiple schools and partners to deliver modern, technology-enabled learning environments.

  Outside of work, I’m a proud parent of four children and enjoy spending quality time together as a family. Being originally from Leeds, I have an interest in football/rugby in which I am a supporter of Leeds United and Leeds Rhinos, although I do attend Hull City matches with my eldest. Balancing a busy home life with a rewarding career keeps me grounded and motivated in everything I do.

• Matthew Cooper

  Director of Finance

  Matthew Cooper

  Director of Finance

  I'm an ACCA-qualified accountant with over 20 years of experience in public sector finance, particularly across the Education and Healthcare sectors. Throughout my career, I'm proud to have built a reputation for being reliable, detail-oriented, and easy to work with—someone who brings clarity to complex financial situations without overcomplicating things.

  I've worked with a wide range of teams and organisations, helping them manage budgets, improve financial processes, and stay on top of compliance. One of my strengths lies in making finance feel less intimidating and more useful—whether that’s through simplifying reports, spotting risks early, or just being a steady voice in the room when decisions need to be made.

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  Lottie Thompson

  Director of Governance

  

  Lottie Thompson

  Director of Governance

  I started my career as a lawyer specialising in employment law in a regional law firm.  Not long after qualifying, I developed an interest in education and began working in my firm’s education team.  I am still a qualified lawyer, but over a decade ago moved into education governance and have never looked back! 

   As Director of Governance I lead on ensuring we have effective governance structures and processes in place and the Trustees and Members are well supported in their roles.  Governance in education never stands still. Anticipating and responding to changing government priorities, funding or regulation means that the work is varied, interesting and most importantly hugely rewarding. 

   When I am not at work, I enjoy time with family. I also enjoy keeping fit, cooking (and eating!) together with relaxing with a good book or film.  

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  Claire Gordon

  Head of Marketing and Communications

  

  Claire Gordon

  Head of Marketing and Communications

  With a degree in European Studies and French, I began my career in editorial roles within London’s publishing sector, working for several respected companies including Pearson Education. After relocating to the East Riding as my family grew, I transitioned into education sector marketing, holding key roles at both Wyke College and Wolfreton School and Sixth Form College.

  My time at Wolfreton was particularly rewarding, coinciding with a major new school building project. I led a rebranding initiative that influenced the school’s visual identity and interior design—an achievement I remain proud of. 

  Since the formation of the Trust in 2017, I have provided ongoing marketing and communications support, and now serve as Head of Marketing and Communications within the Shared Services Team. In this role, I lead on all aspects of internal and external communications, support schools across the Trust, and coordinate a wide range of trust-wide events, ensuring consistent, professional messaging and high-quality presentation across all platforms.

  Outside of work, I find balance in the outdoors. I enjoy long walks with friends and, in recent years, have developed a real passion for gardening—something that continues to grow with each season.

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  Kate Harding

  Head of Central Trust Operations

  

  Kate Harding

  Head of Central Trust Operations

  Developing and supporting people of all ages has been a thread throughout my career to date. Following a degree in English and Music and a Business Post Grad I worked within management recruitment and development, eventually becoming Operations Director of a local training and recruitment organisation. I then completed my in-service PGCE and moved into post-16 Education where I specialised in teaching Business and Computing before moving into curriculum and project management roles with my final role, prior to joining the Trust, as Head of Faculty for Creative and Digital, where my portfolio included 14-16 provision, study programmes, apprenticeships, professional qualifications and Higher Education programmes.

  As Head of Shared Services Operations, my role is to make things happen, to help drive our organisation forward, ensuring that our decision-making balances maximising opportunity with considered risk management. I lead the Internal Audit programme for the Trust, working closely with our Internal Auditors to ensure that all aspects of our organisation are subject to scrutiny so that we can continuously improve our operations.

  My role includes the co-ordination of a wide variety of projects within our estate, supporting project leads and providing real-time feedback to stakeholders on project progress. Whilst it is a multi-faceted role, everything I do is shaped around creating and supporting environments which help children and young people succeed. I really enjoy the opportunities I have to visit our schools and am inspired by the amazing work our teachers do every day to help our learners to progress.

  When I am not at work, I love being outdoors, whether that is time spent working in my garden, walking in our amazing Yorkshire countryside or visiting new places – here or abroad.

Education and School Leadership

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  David Waterson

  Executive Director of Education

  

  David Waterson

  Executive Director of Education

  Working together as part of a Trust is immensely powerful. It allows us to both challenge and support the work we do, ensuring that all of our learners have the opportunity to reach their full potential and positively influence their futures. As a former student of Hessle High, I was fortunate enough to be one of the first beneficiaries of the Sixth Form Consortium in its early days. What started as a vision of a few dedicated teachers almost 30 years ago has now evolved into what we strive to achieve on a larger scale today.

  Since 2007, I have held positions as Headteacher and Executive Headteacher across various schools in the Yorkshire region, working with both Local Authorities and Multi Academy Trusts. I have successfully led several schools out of OFSTED categories and have been recognised as a National Leader of Education.

  As one of two Executive Directors of Education, my responsibilities include overseeing Primary and Special Schools, Special Educational Needs, Disadvantaged Learners, Alternative Curriculum, and leading the Trust's Mental Health team. Additionally, I currently serve as the Trust's Designated Safeguarding Lead.

  Outside of the Trust, I have had successful stints chairing multiple school governing bodies. Most recently, I chaired an Alternative Provision school that received its first 'good' OFSTED judgement under my leadership. Furthermore, I am also a facilitator for National Professional Qualifications and frequently speak at conferences nationwide on leadership development topics.

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  Mark Brown

  Executive Director of Education

  

  Mark Brown

  Executive Director of Education

  After graduating from The University of Salford with a degree in Applied Chemistry, I moved to The University of York to undertake my PGCE. My first teaching appointment was at Maltby Comprehensive School, where I taught chemistry at Key Stage 3, GCSE and A Level. After 3 years at Maltby, I moved to Lady Lumley’s School in Pickering, North Yorkshire to take up the post of Deputy Head of Science and Head of Chemistry. I moved to Hull in 1999 to work for the Local Authority as a Science Consultant and later became a Secondary Advisor.

  I joined Winifred Holtby Academy in Bransholme, Hull as Deputy Headteacher in 2005, before being promoted to the role of Associate Headteacher. I was appointed as Headteacher at Winifred Holtby in 2014. Leading the academy for nearly 10 years has been a huge privilege and has provided me with extensive secondary headship experience that I now bring to the role of Executive Director of Education within the Trust. The remit of this role is to provide strategic leadership for secondary education and school improvement across the organisation.

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  Jamie O'Brien

  Director of Improvement and Standards

  

  Jamie O'Brien

  Director of Improvement and Standards

  I grew up in West Yorkshire - attending school in Bingley and discovering a love of music by performing with local brass bands. After completing a degree and masters in physics, I stepped briefly into the world of corporate consultancy, working for the Business Dynamics group at PriceWaterhouseCoopers. I soon left this to follow my passion for education, returning to Durham University to complete my PGCE (secondary maths) and building a career around making a difference to the lives of young people.  

  I moved across to the East Riding from Kirklees in January 2013, initially as Head of the Schools' Music Service before joining the Local Authority Improvement and Learning Service and taking the role of Principal Improvement Adviser (secondary) from 2018 to 2020. Prior to joining The Consortium Academy trust in September 2022, my most recent post was as Director of Curriculum and Assessment for the Wolds Learning Partnership Multi Academy Trust. Alongside the role across the Trust, I taught mathematics at Longcroft and Woldgate secondary schools and provided additional leadership capacity as a deputy headteacher at Longcroft School and Sixth Form. 

  I am delighted to join the Trust team of talented teachers and leaders as we collectively work to raise standards across our schools and live our Trust vision by 'Shaping Positive Futures'. Outside work I still enjoy performing in various bands and orchestras, and I try to stay physically active by cycling and walking when time and weather allows. 

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  Jay Kerby

  Headteacher, Cottingham

  

  Jay Kerby

  Headteacher, Cottingham

  I’m proud to be the Headteacher of Cottingham High School and look forward to working within The Consortium Academy Trust to make us a front runner in approaches and outcomes for the students that we serve. The supportive network of Headteachers and Trust based colleagues was a key attraction to joining the Trust. It is an exciting time for the school, building on existing foundations to make the school the best it can be, and we are passionate about improvement as a staff body.

  My career to date has seen me work my way up from a Teaching Assistant through to leading schools as a Headteacher since 2003. As a high-level sportsman, I’ve had a varied set of life experiences that have seen me juggle the rigours of my career alongside playing/performing in elite level activities outside of the school day. This was supported by a degree in Sports Science and English at Loughborough University, which has served me well as a qualified teacher of PE and English. As a Headteacher, I believe that we are always learning and I still like to be within a classroom setting, to model our pedagogical approaches and interact with students.

  My school-based philosophy and vision centre around ensuring that all students have the highest of standards and expectations of themselves. I believe in the power of education to transform lives, and, as a former Free School Meals student, I expect only the best opportunities for the students we serve. A native of West London, my school based leadership experience has previously been situated within challenging and deprived areas of the capital, but a relocation to the East Riding has brought me a new challenge.

  Outside of work, I remain a qualified personal trainer, enjoy going to the gym and love spending time with my family within our local area.

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  Kerry Mason

  Headteacher, Croxby

  

  Kerry Mason

  Headteacher, Croxby

  My career in education began in 2009 at Penshurst Primary School, after taking a break from my initial career in retail management to have my children. I initially started as a part-time teaching assistant while completing my degree to become a teacher. The school was fully supportive during this time, encouraging me to develop my skills further by progressing to HLTA, providing valuable teaching experience across all primary year groups. After qualifying as a teacher, I was given the opportunity to become Curriculum Leader, joining the senior leadership team. This role allowed me to deepen my expertise in the primary curriculum and develop my leadership skills further.

  When Croxby Primary School joined the Trust, I was seconded to Croxby as Assistant Head for Teaching and Learning, a role I proudly held since September 2017. In 2021, I was appointed as Headteacher of Croxby Primary, enabling me to continue leading the school’s journey of improvement and growth. I feel very fortunate to work alongside such a dedicated team of leaders, teachers and support staff, all of whom share a strong ‘children first’ ethos and a desire to make a difference. This commitment is evident the moment you walk through the doors of Croxby and see the team in action.

  My experience within TCAT has been one of consistent encouragement and support for personal career progression. I have always felt empowered to achieve my goal of becoming a Headteacher, with the reassurance that support continues beyond this point. The Trust ensures that as a Head, there is always a strong network of colleagues, including other school leaders and the central services team, who provide advice, guidance and collaborative opportunities.

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  Jim Nixon

  Headteacher, Hessle

  

  Jim Nixon

  Headteacher, Hessle

  I began my career in Kent teaching PE and Music however, after undertaking a Masters in Curriculum Studies, I switched tack to become a Geography teacher. Soon after I moved on to senior leadership positions at different schools in King’s Lynn and Norwich.

  My first headship was at Great Yarmouth High, a school in one of the most deprived areas in the country. In 2007 the school was graded good with outstanding features and designated a High Performing Specialist School then in 2008, the English department was graded outstanding. The following year I was appointed Headteacher of City of Norwich School (CNS), a school of 1750 students, with 550 in the sixth form. During my time there, I set up the school’s award-winning partnership with the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and led the school as it joined Ormiston Academies Trust. In 2016, the school was rated Good with outstanding features, with outstanding for leadership and management and personal development, behaviour and welfare.

  In 2017 I retired and set up my own consultancy then, in September 2018, was appointed regional adviser for Ormiston Academies Trust. In this role, I worked with numerous academies in different regions of the country on school improvement strategies and supporting them through Ofsted.

  In 2019 I was asked to take on the position of Interim Principal at Ormiston Denes Academy in Suffolk, a role which continued until August 2021. At the end of September that same year, I became Interim Headteacher at Cliff Park Ormiston Academy until March 2022. Following this, I went back to consultancy work before being appointed Headteacher of Howden School in April 2023. In November 2025, I took up the post of Headteacher at Hessle High School & Sixth Form College.

  On a personal note, I consider it a real privilege be part of a Trust that has a clear vision and a determination to do the absolute best for all of its students. My main passions are family, rugby, playing the saxophone and my regular trips to Scotland.

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  Neal Holder

  Headteacher, Holderness

  

  Neal Holder

  Headteacher, Holderness

  My first teaching experience came by chance back in 1999 when one of my former lecturers asked me if I could teach accountancy evening classes at my old college, when a teacher left at short notice. That experience gave me the teaching bug, so I gave up my job as a project accountant and applied to be a Maths teacher at a school in Dudley. From there I moved to Dyke House School in Hartlepool, where I taught Maths and became a Head of Year, before moving to Jarrow School to be Head of Maths. My next move was into senior management at Nunthorpe Academy as an Assistant Headteacher, focusing on Key Stage 5. I then moved to Grangefield Academy as a Deputy Head, before moving onto my first Headship at Farringdon Community Academy in Sunderland, where I stayed for five years.

  I was delighted to take up the post of Headteacher at Holderness Academy in January 2023. I am really looking forward to the role, as well as the benefits of working within an organisation as supportive as the Trust, and I cannot wait to get started.

• Lisa Tester

  Headteacher, Howden

  Lisa Tester

  Headteacher, Howden

  My career in education began after working in a range of roles across different sectors, from media and customer-facing work to travel, before retraining as a teacher. It was through teaching that I discovered my passion for working with young people and supporting them to achieve their very best. After completing my PGCE and gaining QTS, I progressed through a range of leadership roles including Director of English, Assistant Vice Principal and Deputy Headteacher before stepping into headship.

  I was proud to take on the role of Headteacher at Howden School in January 2026, a community I know well and care deeply about. What I enjoy most about my role is the opportunity to lead meaningful and sustained improvement, ensuring every student receives a high-quality education in a safe, inclusive, and ambitious environment. I am passionate about fostering a culture where students feel known, valued, and supported to thrive, both academically and personally.

  I am excited to take on the challenge of leading Howden School and to continue working closely with the Trust. Being part of the Trust provides valuable opportunities to share expertise, align approaches, and strengthen mutual support across schools, ensuring that all students benefit from a consistently high‑quality education. These are priorities that I value deeply and will continue to develop in my new role.

  Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family and value opportunities to relax, travel, and experience new places. Maintaining balance and well-being is important to me, ensuring I have the energy, focus, and enthusiasm to lead effectively and make a meaningful difference to the Howden community.

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  Mike Copley

  Headteacher, Keyingham

  

  Mike Copley

  Headteacher, Keyingham

  I received my degree in History from Hull University and then went on to study my PGCE in primary education. In 2003, I began my first teaching job at Preston Primary. I instantly began to see and understand the impact a good teacher can have on a child’s development and future aspirations. Throughout my early career, I had the opportunity to lead on history, geography, PE and maths. I understood very early on the importance of trips, school plays, playtimes and empowering pupil voice to provide the full primary experience. These, along with the high expectations in the classroom essential to success, all play a part in creating that unique and powerful period in a child’s life that is 'primary school.' 

  I joined the Trust as a Year 6 teacher with responsibilities for maths and assessment at Croxby Primary School. I was deeply impressed with the speed of change and professionalism of my colleagues there. Shortly after joining, I became an Assistant Head and again was impressed by both the professionally demanding environment but also the support provided to meet those expectations. When Keyingham Primary School joined the Trust, I joined initially on a secondment as a Deputy Head. I quickly realised that I could make a difference here and was able to stay to support the school on the journey they were on. One of the proudest moments of my career, I’m sure, will always be the successful OFSTED in the summer of 2024. The following year, I became the Headteacher and now look forward to driving the school forward and maintaining the high expectations that have become synonymous with Keyingham Primary.

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  Rachel Davies

  Headteacher, Oakfield

  

  Rachel Davies

  Headteacher, Oakfield

  TBC

• TBC

  Headteacher, Penshurst

  TBC

  Headteacher, Penshurst

  TBC

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  Karen Farmer

  Headteacher, Winifred

  

  Karen Farmer

  Headteacher, Winifred

  My educational journey began in Redcar, located in the North East, where I lived until I studied for my Biochemistry degree at the University of East Anglia (UEA) in Norwich. Following the completion of my degree, my career in education started in Nottingham, where I undertook my PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education). In 1997, I moved to Hull, marking the start of my profession as a science teacher at South Hunsley School. I moved to Winifred Holtby in 2001 as Deputy Head of Science and have remained at the school ever since. Winifred Holtby has a unique charm that fosters an environment that encourages long-term commitment from its staff. Over the years, I have assumed various roles at the academy, including Head of Science, Assistant Headteacher and Deputy Headteacher. My experience at Winifred Holtby has been immensely rewarding, largely owing to the loyalty, hard work, and appreciation exhibited by our students. The high-quality provision and support provided by the dedicated staff contribute to the school's positive and nurturing atmosphere.

  After many years at Winifred Holtby, I was incredibly proud to take up the role of Headteacher. Leading the academy excites me, and I thrive on the challenges and rewards that come with the role. Working within the Trust brings excellent opportunities for sharing expertise and fostering mutual support amongst our staff members. This ultimately benefits all of our students. I take pride in the journey that has led me to my current position, and I am committed to continuing the tradition of providing exceptional education and support to the Winifred Holtby community.

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  Susanne Kukuc

  Headteacher, Wolfreton

  

  Susanne Kukuc

  Headteacher, Wolfreton

  I studied Geography at university, with my primary focus being physical geography. After achieving my degree, I embarked on gap year employment and travel, before completing a PGCE at the University of Hull. After qualifying as a teacher, I moved to Leicester and then Northamptonshire where I joined a fantastic school and really learned my craft. I experienced the value of both challenge and support from colleagues and it was here that I secured my first promoted post, leading PSHE across the school. In 2003, I relocated to the East Riding of Yorkshire and took up post as Head of Geography at Wolfreton, another fantastic place to learn and work. In 2018 I was formally appointed to my current position, having served as Deputy Headteacher since 2008 and then Associate Headteacher since the Trust’s inception. I am incredibly proud to be Wolfreton’s Headteacher. I work with a team of inspiring colleagues; they are dedicated and show a care and commitment to the students daily and our students continue to inspire me with their kindness, enthusiasm and willingness to reflect and have a go.  

  My love of geography and the outdoors was inspired by growing up in Cumbria, an exceptional geography department in my own school and being introduced to challenges and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.  Having battled the mountains at bronze and silver level, I eventually achieved the gold award in treacherous weather canoeing the Scottish Lochs. My gap year travel ignited a passion I have enjoyed ever since.  During my career I have been fortunate to secure study tour places to experience Japan, joining teachers from around the globe, and China with the Geographical Association. Each of these experiences in these activities drives me to encourage our young people to expand their horizons and seek out what life has to offer and inspire them. Working with fellow headteachers and colleagues in all roles across the Trust has been beneficial both personally and to our school. We have already enjoyed many benefits of a collective approach, and continue to welcome the challenge and support that it brings.