Kedleston Group is delighted to welcome Nick Simpson as Regional Director of Education for the West Midlands, strengthening an experienced leadership team that has grown to three Regional Directors in response to the organisation's continued expansion and the increasing number of children and young people it supports.
Nick brings almost two decades of experience in specialist education, having worked across a wide range of roles spanning teaching, school leadership and regional oversight.
He began his career working in care and based in a residential school. Nick immediately knew he loved the sector and worked as a supply teaching assistant in an SEN setting while doing his degree. He completed his teaching qualification at Loughborough University and continued to be focused on supporting children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
Over the years, he has progressed through roles including teacher, Head of Key Stage, Assistant Headteacher, Deputy Headteacher, Headteacher and Executive Headteacher, before spending the last six years working as a Regional Director. Having worked at every level within schools, Nick brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by colleagues across education.
Nick said: “I've spent nearly 20 years working in specialist education because I genuinely believe in the difference it can make. I'm passionate about supporting children and young people who, for whatever reason, haven't found success in mainstream settings. Seeing them re-engage with education, grow in confidence and go on to achieve things they may never have thought possible is what motivates me every day.
“What attracted me to Kedleston Group was its family feel and the genuine focus on children. During the recruitment process, everyone I spoke to talked about the organisation with real pride and passion. Children are truly at the heart of every decision that is made.”
In his new role, Nick will work closely with school leaders to support continuous improvement and help ensure every school provides exceptional experiences and outcomes for pupils.
He said: “Whenever I visit a school, I always ask myself one question: would I be happy to send my own daughter here? The answer should be yes every single time. That's the standard we should all aspire to. My focus is on working alongside our talented teams to make every school exceptional and ensure that every child receives the outstanding education and support they deserve.
“We have an incredible opportunity to make a lasting difference to young people's lives, helping them rebuild confidence, engage in learning and develop the skills they need to succeed in the future.”
Outside of work, Nick lives in Staffordshire with his wife and daughter. He enjoys travelling, spending time with his family and following his beloved Preston North End.
Lee Reed, Chief Operating Officer at Kedleston Group, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Nick to Kedleston Group. His extensive experience, proven leadership and unwavering commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people make him an outstanding addition to our team.
“As we continue to grow and welcome more children and young people into our schools, Nick's expertise will play an important role in supporting our leaders, strengthening educational excellence and ensuring that every pupil receives the very best opportunities to thrive.”
**Pictured here at the recent formal opening of Oakbridge School in Birmingham, second from left.
