Nexus Multi-Academy Trust

As an academy, the Academy Council of Lotus Academy has delegated powers from the ​Nexus Multi Academy Trust Board of Directors, which are outlined in the Trust’s Scheme of Delegation. 
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The Chief Executive Officer and Officers of the Trust act as advisors to the Academy Council and attend most meetings.

Lotus Academy, previously governed by an Interim Education Board as a Local Authority School, will be transitioning to an Academy Council governance model as part of its academisation with the Nexus Academy Trust.

Pen Portraits

Abbie Martin (Academy Council Chair)

Abbie is the Transformation Projects Lead at Nexus Multi Academy Trust, having joined in March 2025 and progressing from her previous role as Digital Transformation Lead. She brings over a decade of experience in strategic change and service improvement from her time at the University of Sheffield, where she most recently served as Head of Business Relationship Management. With a master’s degree in management and strategic leadership, Abbie is passionate about delivering transformation projects that strengthen organisational effectiveness and empower colleagues across the Trust.

Nigel Roberson (Headteacher)

Nigel is proud to be Headteacher of Lotus Academy and is passionate about creating a school where every young person feels safe, valued and able to succeed.

At the heart of Nigel’s leadership is a belief that strong relationships, high expectations and consistency provide the foundations for pupils to thrive. Through the Lotus Way, he is committed to developing a positive school culture built on respect, responsibility and a shared ambition for every pupil.

Nigel recognises that every young person is different and is particularly passionate about ensuring that the curriculum and wider opportunities at Lotus Academy respond to pupils’ individual needs, helping them to develop confidence, independence and the skills they need for their next steps in life.

He believes strongly in the importance of teamwork and community, with pupils, families and staff working together to achieve the best possible outcomes. He is equally committed to developing and supporting staff, creating a school where colleagues feel valued and have opportunities to grow professionally.

Nigel’s ambition is simple: for Lotus Academy to be a school everyone can be proud of, where pupils are known as individuals, achievements are celebrated and every young person is supported to realise their potential.

Sarah Mulhall

Sarah joined Kelford School in 2024 and brings with her over 20 years’ experience working in special education. Prior to her current role as Headteacher, Sarah spent six years as Headteacher at a special school in Doncaster, where she developed a strong track record of leadership and inclusive practice.

Sarah is a passionate, child-centred practitioner with boundless energy and a clear determination to ensure that every child is given the very best opportunities to succeed in later life.

Chelsea Eccles (Teaching staff member)

I am the dedicated PE Lead at Lotus Academy with over 13 years of experience in SEN education. I am a qualified kickboxing coach and mother of two. I am passionate about creating a generation of healthy, active children. I like to bring energy, empathy, and have a hands-on approach to everything I do.

Aaron King

Further information to follow