Director of Secondary Education

Nikki Clifton is an accomplished education leader with over two decades of experience across teaching, learning, and inclusion. As Director of Secondary Education, Nikki provides strategic leadership for six secondary schools, driving improvement and ensuring every student receives exceptional provision. 

With a career spanning over twenty years, Nikki has transformed schools through strategic leadership, curriculum innovation, and outstanding pastoral care. She is committed to realising the Trust’s mission—“excellence every day, unlimited ambition, transforming lives”—across all our schools. 

Nikki’s career is marked by a commitment to equity, inclusion, and excellence. As former Headteacher of Kinver High School, she served for six successful years, leading the school from ‘Requires Improvement’ to ‘Good’ in all categories and transforming outcomes, financial stability, and reputation. Her innovative approach to curriculum design and alignment has strengthened academic standards and created opportunities for staff development and student enrichment across the Trust. 

Passionate about inclusion and ensuring that all children have equity and equality of provision and opportunities, Nikki developed the ‘Thrive’ Alternative Provision Base, which has been recognised by the Local Authority as a model of excellence. She has provided advisory support to schools and Trusts regionally, contributed to DfE research on inclusion, and worked closely with the Local Authority to share best practice in teaching and learning. She also is a member of Staffordshire LA Schools Forum. 

Nikki’s leadership extends to professional development, coaching, and mentoring, supporting the growth of emerging leaders and fostering a culture of high expectations. Her experience spans academic and pastoral leadership, curriculum innovation, safeguarding, and inclusion, making a significant impact on school improvement and student wellbeing.