Executive Team
Amanda Jennings is the Chief Executive officer of Strive4 Academy Trust.
As Chief Executive Officer, Amanda develops and articulates the vision, values and ethos for Strive4 Trust and inspires and empowers others to lead ever-progressing schools. She is responsible for the performance of Strive4 schools and is committed to creating profound learning opportunities for both pupils and staff alike; she believes in the personal and academic development of all.
With a proven track record of educational innovation, development and improvement, Amanda has a breadth of strategic leadership experience and skills across the primary and middle school sector. Prior to her role as CEO in September 2017, Amanda had successfully led several schools from requiring improvement to good and outstanding with Ofsted reports reflecting the ambitious culture of aspiration within the schools. Amanda has particular expertise in teaching and learning, safeguarding and developing leaders and this has led to school improvement work both locally and nationally. Amanda has over 32 years’ experience in Education, with over 18 years experience of being a headteacher and she has held many positions of responsibility and leadership within schools. Amanda holds both the national professional qualification for executive leaders and the national professional qualification for headship. Amanda is principally responsible to the Trust Board, Parliament and the Education and Skills Funding Agency for managing the financial resources under Trust control. This is achieved by ensuring value for money to achieve the best possible educational and wider outcomes through the economic, efficient and effective use of Trust funds.
Nicholas Miller is the Head of Ray Lodge Primary School and has significant experience of staff management and school leadership at strategic and operational levels.
Nick Miller is an experienced and dedicated school leader who has successfully led two schools on their journey to becoming sustainably strong, with a clear focus on securing lasting improvement and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive. He brings extensive leadership experience from before joining Strive4 Academy Trust, alongside a strong understanding of what it takes to build effective teams, develop confident leaders and create schools where both children and adults flourish.
Nick’s vision is to nurture happy, healthy and confident learners who aim high, embrace challenge and strive for excellence. He believes that educational success extends beyond academic achievement, recognising the importance of developing the whole child. He is passionate about creating environments where children feel safe, valued and motivated, and where their emotional, physical and intellectual wellbeing are prioritised.
A research-informed leader, Nick actively seeks opportunities to learn from others, connecting with schools locally and nationally to explore evidence, share best practice and continually refine his approach. He believes that strong leadership is built on reflection, collaboration and a willingness to challenge existing thinking.
Nick is also a passionate advocate for the importance of a healthy mind and body. He understands that wellbeing, positive relationships, physical health and a sense of belonging are fundamental to successful learning and personal development. This commitment shapes his approach to school culture, ensuring that pupils and staff are supported to flourish, develop resilience and achieve their potential.
Through his leadership, Nick combines high expectations with genuine care, building sustainable school improvement and a culture in which excellence, wellbeing and personal growth go hand in hand.
Connie Abela is the Interim Head of School of Farnham Green Primary School, leading with care, ambition and a commitment to every child’s success.
Connie Abela is Interim Head of School at Farnham Green Primary School and a valued member of Strive4 Academy Trust’s leadership team. She provides strategic and day-to-day leadership, working closely with staff, pupils and families to sustain a positive school culture, strengthen teaching and learning, and ensure every child is supported to thrive. Connie is committed to fostering an inclusive, ambitious learning environment where pupils and staff can achieve their very best.