has announced the appointment of as its next CEO.
The Trust is Nottingham’s biggest Multi Academy Trust (MAT) with 10 academies across Nottingham, Derby and Derbyshire and educates one third of Nottingham鈥檚 children.
Mr Higham will take the helm from September 2025, following the retirement of Sian Hampton, who has led the trust for over two decades.
Mr Higham joins from his role as CEO of the Transforming Lives Education Trust, in Rugby, Warwickshire, and brings more than 20 years of experience in school and trust leadership.
He has a reputation for “championing inclusion” and 鈥渇ostering high-performing school cultures鈥, a press release said.
Mr Higham said: 鈥淚t鈥檚 a genuine honour to be appointed CEO of Archway Learning Trust. From my first conversations, I was deeply struck by the strength of the trust鈥檚 ethos and its unwavering commitment to transforming the life chances of every child. That mission, rooted in values I share, resonates strongly with my own belief that every young person deserves to feel they belong and to be equipped for the world of possibilities ahead.鈥
He added: 鈥淛ust as important is the commitment to our staff, the people who make the difference every day in our schools. I believe that when colleagues feel valued, supported, and inspired, they thrive and so do the communities they serve.鈥
Mr Higham will take over from long-serving CEO Sian Hampton, who retires after more than 20 years at the helm.
Ms Hampton said: 鈥淚t has been the greatest privilege of my professional life to lead Archway Learning Trust. I am delighted to be handing over to someone who shares our deep values and commitment to transforming lives through education. I wish James every success and know the Trust will continue to thrive under his leadership.鈥
