We are a team committed to your success
At Nisai, we’re not just about delivering education; we’re about creating a transformative experience for every student.
With over 100 years of collective experience, our Senior Leadership Team is the driving force behind our mission to provide the highest quality education.
Their dedication ensures that the values of excellence, care, and innovation run deep within our organisation, reaching every student who joins us.

We are a team committed to your success
At Nisai, we’re not just about delivering education; we’re about creating a transformative experience for every student.
With over 100 years of collective experience, our Senior Leadership Team is the driving force behind our mission to provide the highest quality education.
Their dedication ensures that the values of excellence, care, and innovation run deep within our organisation, reaching every student who joins us.
Stability, experience and passion
When you join Nisai, you’re entering a community supported by a dedicated team that knows what it takes to help students succeed.
The majority of our Managers and Team Leaders have been promoted from within, bringing continuity, expertise, and a deep understanding of our students' needs. This stability ensures that the education we provide is built on a foundation of knowledge, passion, and commitment to excellence.
From teachers and mentors to student support and technical teams, every member of our staff plays a crucial role in your educational journey. They’re not just experts in their fields; they’re also invested in your personal growth and success.
A holistic approach to student support
We understand that education is a deeply personal and sometimes emotional journey, not only for students but for their families too.
Our team is experienced in providing a compassionate, listening ear, understanding each family’s unique situation, and offering the support needed to navigate the academic and personal challenges that may arise.
At Nisai, you’ll never feel like just a number; we take the time to understand your needs and help you overcome any barriers to learning.
It’s the people who make the difference
Nisai’s success doesn’t just come from the qualifications we offer; it comes from the dedicated people who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Our teachers, mentors, and support staff are the heart of the organisation. Every one of them is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of our students, helping them grow, achieve, and unlock their potential.
When you join Nisai, you’re not just gaining access to a world-class education, you’re joining a team that’s with you every step of the way, ensuring you have the tools and support to thrive.
Are you ready to be part of a safe and trusted learning community that prioritises your success? Join Nisai today.
When you join Nisai, you’re entering a community supported by a dedicated team that knows what it takes to help students succeed.
The majority of our Managers and Team Leaders have been promoted from within, bringing continuity, expertise, and a deep understanding of our students' needs. This stability ensures that the education we provide is built on a foundation of knowledge, passion, and commitment to excellence.
From teachers and mentors to student support and technical teams, every member of our staff plays a crucial role in your educational journey. They’re not just experts in their fields; they’re also invested in your personal growth and success.
We understand that education is a deeply personal and sometimes emotional journey, not only for students but for their families too.
Our team is experienced in providing a compassionate, listening ear, understanding each family’s unique situation, and offering the support needed to navigate the academic and personal challenges that may arise.
At Nisai, you’ll never feel like just a number; we take the time to understand your needs and help you overcome any barriers to learning.
Nisai’s success doesn’t just come from the qualifications we offer; it comes from the dedicated people who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Our teachers, mentors, and support staff are the heart of the organisation. Every one of them is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of our students, helping them grow, achieve, and unlock their potential.
When you join Nisai, you’re not just gaining access to a world-class education, you’re joining a team that’s with you every step of the way, ensuring you have the tools and support to thrive.
Are you ready to be part of a safe and trusted learning community that prioritises your success? Join Nisai today.
Our Senior Team

Dhruv Patel
CEO & Founder

Dhruv Patel
CEO & Founder
Dhruv is the Founder and CEO of Nisai Group, a pioneer in high-quality online and inclusive education based on British standards. For nearly 30 years, he has led Nisai in developing virtual classroom models that support thousands of students globally, particularly those who face challenges in accessing traditional education.
In addition to his leadership at Nisai, Dhruv is actively involved in several international educational organisations and initiatives:
• Chairman of the Nisai Education Trust, overseeing scholarships and projects supporting disadvantaged learners.
• Chairman of Quillsoft Ltd. (Canada), promoting assistive technology tools like WordQ for students with learning difficulties.
• Vice President of the Worlddidac Association, contributing to inclusive education policies and global edtech collaboration.
• Strategic partner of UNESCO IITE, advocating for quality education for disadvantaged learners aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 2030).
Dhruv’s notable achievements include:
• Fellow Doctor – National Institute of Education, Singapore
• Honourary Member – Chartered Institute of Project Management
• Global Award for Inclusive Education 2025
• Named one of the Top 100 BAME Leaders in Tech (Financial Times)
• Keynote speaker at ASEAN Inclusive Education Conferences
• Co-author of research with the Asian Development Bank (ADB)
• Member of delegations to the World Bank, IMF, IDB, and USAID

Victoria Reaney
Chief Operating Officer

Victoria Reaney
Chief Operating Officer
Victoria joined Nisai in 2008 and is a valued member of the Senior Leadership Team. As Chief Operating Officer, she oversees all departments across the UK and international teams, working closely with managers and staff to ensure that Nisai’s day-to-day operations run smoothly and remain focused on student success. Her role includes oversight of internal systems, processes, and policies to ensure a consistent, high-quality experience for all learners.
Starting her career in hotel management before joining Nisai as Sales Support, Victoria has grown within the organisation, taking on increasing levels of responsibility that have led her to her current leadership role. Her journey is a testament to her dedication, adaptability, and commitment to the company’s mission.
Victoria finds immense reward in knowing that Nisai provides students with the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed, regardless of their circumstances. She is proud to be part of a passionate, student-centred team that consistently puts learners first.
Witnessing Nisai’s evolution since she joined has been a source of great pride, and Victoria is honoured to be part of turning a powerful vision into a global reality.

Dai Patel
Chief Financial Officer

Dai Patel
Chief Financial Officer
Dai joined Nisai in 2023 as our Chief Financial Officer, bringing deep expertise in international finance and a strong commitment to expanding educational access. He is responsible for managing the financial operations of all our international entities, supporting sustainable growth and impact across our global network.
Driven by a passion to support students facing barriers to learning, Dai is dedicated to expanding the reach of Nisai’s exceptional provision to those who need it most.
A Fellow Chartered Accountant (FCA), Dai held roles at the private equity group, Blackstone, before helping to establish PJT Partners through the spin-out of its advisory arm, where he went on to work for many years. He holds a BSc in Economics and International Development from the University of Bath.

Carole Collier
Group HR Director

Carole Collier
Group HR Director
Carole is responsible for all HR functions across Nisai globally, focusing on the acquisition, development, and retention of talented staff throughout the group. She joined Nisai in 2018 and has since played a pivotal role in shaping the team that drives our mission forward.
Passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of young people and their families, Carole believes that to achieve this, we need dedicated, talented, and like-minded people who share Nisai’s values.
She finds great fulfillment in building and nurturing the Nisai family and celebrating the successes of both the team and our students.
With a long career in Direct Marketing, Carole brings a wealth of experience to her role.
Carole believes her most notable highlight is walking through the doors of Nisai for the first time and discovering a place where she truly feels at home.

David Lester
Group Learning Services Director & Vice President, Quillsoft

David Lester
Group Learning Services Director & Vice President, Quillsoft
David supports the Nisai Learning sales teams and partners worldwide, raising awareness of inclusive and equitable education for learners of all ages. He also splits his time between the UK and Canada, leading the growth and development of Quillsoft Ltd, an assistive technology company within the Nisai Group focused on improving standards in reading and writing.
Having joined Nisai in 2012, David is driven by the desire to make a meaningful impact and see first hand how Nisai’s work transforms opportunities for students. What connects him to the organisation, in addition to its values, is the shared motivation to improve the lives of children across all teams in both the UK and international offices. With over 25 years of experience in service-related industries, including 15 years in education, David has supported parents, schools, higher education institutions, and government teams both in the UK and internationally.
David’s experience as a parent has shaped his perspective on the value of education, especially recognising that not all children have access to it in the same way. He has spoken at numerous events across the UK and Asia, advocating for alternative approaches to education for students with special educational needs and disabilities. A notable highlight of his career was attending the Global Inclusion Schools Forum at UNESCO HQ in Paris, where he contributed to a session on the role of assistive technology in inclusive education environments.
In 2025, David and his colleagues were honoured with two separate Global Inclusion Awards for Nisai and Quillsoft, recognising their work in promoting and supporting equitable, inclusive education worldwide.

Emma Gunn
UK Business Development Manager

Emma Gunn
UK Business Development Manager
Emma has been with Nisai since 2009 and plays a key role as our UK Business Development Manager. Her focus is on building strong relationships with schools, local authorities, and other partners to ensure more young people—especially those unable to thrive in mainstream education—can access Nisai’s flexible and supportive learning solutions.
Working closely with professionals and families, Emma helps shape tailored programmes that meet the unique needs of each student, empowering them to succeed. She is deeply driven by the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young people, their families, and the wider community—particularly when traditional education settings fall short.
Emma brings a rich background of experience, having previously worked as a Project Manager, finance support, fundraiser for a local hospice, and volunteer in peer-to-peer support. Her work at Nisai is grounded in a deep belief that every learner deserves an education that fits—and a future they can believe in.

Laura Hodkinson
Nisai Professional Development Institute Manager

Laura Hodkinson
Nisai Professional Development Institute Manager
Laura has been a key member of Nisai since 2010, bringing over 15 years of experience to her current role coordinating the creation and delivery of learning and training packages for post-formal and adult learners. She also works closely with the Exams team to manage assessment and internal verification across portfolio-based courses at all levels.
With a strong foundation in teacher training, Laura supports the internal development of Nisai’s teaching staff, including overseeing lesson observations and contributing to the continuous improvement of educational practice. She plays an active role in researching and implementing new innovations and collaborates with international partners to deliver UK-quality qualifications globally.
Having progressed through various leadership roles—from teaching English and History, to heading Key Stage 3, English and Humanities, and later the Teaching and Learning department—Laura brings a deep understanding of inclusive education. She believes that everyone deserves access to a tailored educational pathway that meets their individual needs. Her philosophy is rooted in the idea that not all learners fit the same mould, but with the right environment, they can thrive.
Laura holds a Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training, a Level 4 qualification in Internal Verification, and a Level 3 Assessor qualification, reflecting her strong commitment to quality, equity, and lifelong learning.

Tiby Samuel
Head of Technical Services

Tiby Samuel
Head of Technical Services
Tiby joined Nisai in 2014 as the Head of Technical Services, where she is responsible for managing all IT systems and infrastructure. Her primary goal is to ensure that lessons proceed smoothly without technical interruptions, offering essential support to both students and staff.
Tiby considers Nisai her second home and takes immense pride in the impact her team has on students' lives, ensuring seamless access to the Nisai platform and providing top-notch technical assistance. Her dedication to offering a helping hand is a core value she strives to instil within her team.
Prior to joining Nisai, Tiby worked as an IT Support Technician at Mphasis, Micrologic, and Softcom. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science Engineering. Recently, she completed the TCS London Marathon 2025, showcasing her perseverance and determination.

Daniel Skillcorn
Head of Development

Daniel Skillcorn
Head of Development
Daniel leads the IT Development team at Nisai, overseeing the maintenance and continuous improvement of the software and systems that support our operations. Having been with the company since 2013, Daniel is passionate about streamlining processes and ensuring that both students and staff benefit from enhanced, user-friendly systems.
Previously a graphic designer and illustrator, Daniel's background in design contributes to his approach to creating intuitive and efficient solutions. He has successfully launched several key systems, including the NPDI System, NVA 4 and 5, and Nisims 2, all of which have had a significant impact on Nisai’s ability to provide high-quality educational experiences.
Daniel thrives on the challenge of making systems work better, with a focus on continuous improvement to make life easier for both students and staff alike.

Lesley Laws
Head of Teaching & Learning

Lesley Laws
Head of Teaching & Learning
With over 20 years of experience in education, spanning mainstream schools, alternative provision, and the private sector, Lesley brings a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to nurturing student success.
A subject specialist in science, particularly biology and environmental science, she has been with Nisai for more than a decade, where she passionately champions our mission to provide outstanding, accessible, and engaging learning for all students.
Lesley firmly believes in the power of education to shape future leaders and is a dedicated advocate for the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Her unwavering dedication ensures that every learner at Nisai receives the support, encouragement, and opportunity they need to thrive and make a meaningful impact on the world.
Lesley holds a BSc in Secondary Science Education, an HNC in Environmental Science, a PGCE, QTLS, ATS, CTeach, and is a Fellow of the Society for Education and Training (FSET).

Lee Oliver
Lead Teacher

Lee Oliver
Lead Teacher
Lee, who joined Nisai in 2011, is a Lead Teacher. In this role, he works closely with the Head of Teaching and Learning, subject leads, and fellow teachers to uphold the highest standards of education and foster a collaborative, student-focused approach to achievement.
Lee is deeply passionate about the transformative power of education. He views Nisai as the only viable option for delivering holistic, high-quality education to some of the most deprived and hard-to-reach learners across the globe—and is driven by a desire to be part of that life-changing experience for each student.
With a strong commitment to cultivating a positive and dynamic learning environment, Lee is dedicated to supporting and empowering his colleagues. He actively contributes to the development of innovative teaching strategies and promotes a culture of continuous improvement to ensure all students have access to exceptional learning experiences.
Lee holds a Level 5 qualification in Maths and a PGCE. He also brings valuable managerial and training experience from previous roles and has mentored several colleagues through their QTLS and Level 5 education qualifications, reflecting his leadership and dedication to professional growth within the teaching community.

Cassandra Collier
Subject Lead

Cassandra Collier
Subject Lead
Cassandra is a Senior Teacher who joined Nisai in 2022, bringing her expertise in English and Humanities to support and guide our dedicated teaching staff. In her role, she plays a key part in ensuring the highest standards of education through close collaboration with teachers and a focus on student success.
Passionate about creating a positive, dynamic learning environment, Cassandra is committed to ensuring every teacher feels supported and empowered. She works alongside her colleagues to champion the development of innovative teaching strategies and foster a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring all students receive the best possible education.
Cassandra holds a BA(Hons) in English Literature, a PGCE in Secondary English, and is currently pursuing an MA in Education, furthering her commitment to professional growth and excellence in teaching.

Daniel Walker
Subject Lead

Daniel Walker
Subject Lead
Daniel is a Senior Teacher, joining Nisai in 2018. He specialises in Functional Skills and IT, as well as teaching English and History. Senior Teachers like Daniel play a vital role in supporting our dedicated teaching staff by ensuring the highest standards of education through collaboration and guidance.
Passionate about creating a positive, dynamic learning environment, Daniel works closely with his colleagues to develop innovative teaching strategies and foster a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that all students receive the best possible education. His commitment to student success and teacher support is central to his approach.
Daniel holds a BA in Journalism and a PGCE, demonstrating his dedication to professional development and excellence in education.

Aimi Hellawell
Customer & Student Support Team Manager

Aimi Hellawell
Customer & Student Support Team Manager
Aimi joined Nisai in 2010 and leads our Customer and Student Support Team (CaSST), overseeing key areas such as EHCP, Exams, Student Support, Attendance, and Administration. With a deep commitment to inclusive education, Aimi is passionate about ensuring every student—regardless of background or need—has the opportunity to succeed.
She takes great pride in the vital support her team provides, not only to students but also to their families and wider support networks. Aimi is inspired by Nisai’s student-first ethos, which creates opportunities that many young people might not otherwise have.
Before joining Nisai, Aimi worked in the leisure and hospitality industry, including organising children’s events at a world-renowned tourist attraction. She is also a fully qualified careers advisor, holding a Level 6 Diploma in Career Guidance and Development.

Josephine Outhwaite
Head of Progression, Exams & Qualifications

Josephine Outhwaite
Head of Progression, Exams & Qualifications
Josephine leads the exams function within the Customer and Student Support Team at Nisai, ensuring that all students have a fair opportunity to access education and qualifications. Having joined in 2011, Josephine is deeply committed to the belief that education is a right, not a privilege. She is passionate about creating an inclusive environment where learners are supported to achieve their full potential.
With a personal and professional journey that spans studying and working both at home and abroad, Josephine found her place at Nisai. As someone living with a chronic illness, she is particularly dedicated to advocating for flexible opportunities in education, the workplace, and life, so everyone can access the experiences and success they deserve.
Josephine holds an impressive array of qualifications, including a BA(Hons) in French and History, a Level 3 Certificate in Advice and Information, a Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement, a Higher Certificate in Managing and Administering Examinations, a Level 4 Understanding Children with SEMH Difficulties, and Level 3 and 5 Endorsed Awards in Special Educational Needs Coordination.
Throughout her time at Nisai, she has loved growing both personally and professionally, alongside inspiring learners and colleagues.

Sheena Scott
EHCP Support Services Team Leader

Sheena Scott
EHCP Support Services Team Leader
Sheena leads Nisai’s EHCP Team, overseeing the delivery of vital support services for students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). Her team is responsible for managing mandatory consultations, arranging and facilitating annual, transition, and emergency reviews, completing statutory documentation to local authority deadlines, and coordinating attainment data submissions. Sheena also works closely with parents and carers, providing support and guidance around the challenges their children may face due to special educational needs.
Since joining in 2021, Sheena has introduced and embedded essential EHCP processes and procedures, building a trusted and efficient team that consistently delivers meaningful outcomes for students. She brings over 13 years of experience in education, including roles in a Service Children's School in Cyprus and as a key member of a SEND team in a Dorset secondary school.
Holding a degree in Business and a Diploma in SEND, Sheena is deeply passionate about advocating for students who struggle in mainstream settings. Having witnessed these challenges firsthand, she is committed to ensuring every learner accesses the education they need, want, and deserve. By working closely with students, families, and professionals, she helps young people gain the qualifications and confidence they need to live fulfilling, independent lives. Her work has led to numerous success stories—built on compassion, dedication, and trusted relationships.
Our Senior Team

Dhruv Patel
CEO & Founder

Dhruv Patel
CEO & Founder
Dhruv is the Founder and CEO of Nisai Group, a pioneer in high-quality online and inclusive education based on British standards. For nearly 30 years, he has led Nisai in developing virtual classroom models that support thousands of students globally, particularly those who face challenges in accessing traditional education.
In addition to his leadership at Nisai, Dhruv is actively involved in several international educational organisations and initiatives:
• Chairman of the Nisai Education Trust, overseeing scholarships and projects supporting disadvantaged learners.
• Chairman of Quillsoft Ltd. (Canada), promoting assistive technology tools like WordQ for students with learning difficulties.
• Vice President of the Worlddidac Association, contributing to inclusive education policies and global edtech collaboration.
• Strategic partner of UNESCO IITE, advocating for quality education for disadvantaged learners aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 2030).
Dhruv’s notable achievements include:
• Fellow Doctor – National Institute of Education, Singapore
• Honourary Member – Chartered Institute of Project Management
• Global Award for Inclusive Education 2025
• Named one of the Top 100 BAME Leaders in Tech (Financial Times)
• Keynote speaker at ASEAN Inclusive Education Conferences
• Co-author of research with the Asian Development Bank (ADB)
• Member of delegations to the World Bank, IMF, IDB, and USAID

Victoria Reaney
Chief Operating Officer

Victoria Reaney
Chief Operating Officer
Victoria joined Nisai in 2008 and is a valued member of the Senior Leadership Team. As Chief Operating Officer, she oversees all departments across the UK and international teams, working closely with managers and staff to ensure that Nisai’s day-to-day operations run smoothly and remain focused on student success. Her role includes oversight of internal systems, processes, and policies to ensure a consistent, high-quality experience for all learners.
Starting her career in hotel management before joining Nisai as Sales Support, Victoria has grown within the organisation, taking on increasing levels of responsibility that have led her to her current leadership role. Her journey is a testament to her dedication, adaptability, and commitment to the company’s mission.
Victoria finds immense reward in knowing that Nisai provides students with the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed, regardless of their circumstances. She is proud to be part of a passionate, student-centred team that consistently puts learners first.
Witnessing Nisai’s evolution since she joined has been a source of great pride, and Victoria is honoured to be part of turning a powerful vision into a global reality.

Dai Patel
Chief Financial Officer

Dai Patel
Chief Financial Officer
Dai joined Nisai in 2023 as our Chief Financial Officer, bringing deep expertise in international finance and a strong commitment to expanding educational access. He is responsible for managing the financial operations of all our international entities, supporting sustainable growth and impact across our global network.
Driven by a passion to support students facing barriers to learning, Dai is dedicated to expanding the reach of Nisai’s exceptional provision to those who need it most.
A Fellow Chartered Accountant (FCA), Dai held roles at the private equity group, Blackstone, before helping to establish PJT Partners through the spin-out of its advisory arm, where he went on to work for many years. He holds a BSc in Economics and International Development from the University of Bath.

Carole Collier
Group HR Director

Carole Collier
Group HR Director
Carole is responsible for all HR functions across Nisai globally, focusing on the acquisition, development, and retention of talented staff throughout the group. She joined Nisai in 2018 and has since played a pivotal role in shaping the team that drives our mission forward.
Passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of young people and their families, Carole believes that to achieve this, we need dedicated, talented, and like-minded people who share Nisai’s values.
She finds great fulfillment in building and nurturing the Nisai family and celebrating the successes of both the team and our students.
With a long career in Direct Marketing, Carole brings a wealth of experience to her role.
Carole believes her most notable highlight is walking through the doors of Nisai for the first time and discovering a place where she truly feels at home.

David Lester
Group Learning Services Director & Vice President, Quillsoft

David Lester
Group Learning Services Director & Vice President, Quillsoft
David supports the Nisai Learning sales teams and partners worldwide, raising awareness of inclusive and equitable education for learners of all ages. He also splits his time between the UK and Canada, leading the growth and development of Quillsoft Ltd, an assistive technology company within the Nisai Group focused on improving standards in reading and writing.
Having joined Nisai in 2012, David is driven by the desire to make a meaningful impact and see first hand how Nisai’s work transforms opportunities for students. What connects him to the organisation, in addition to its values, is the shared motivation to improve the lives of children across all teams in both the UK and international offices. With over 25 years of experience in service-related industries, including 15 years in education, David has supported parents, schools, higher education institutions, and government teams both in the UK and internationally.
David’s experience as a parent has shaped his perspective on the value of education, especially recognising that not all children have access to it in the same way. He has spoken at numerous events across the UK and Asia, advocating for alternative approaches to education for students with special educational needs and disabilities. A notable highlight of his career was attending the Global Inclusion Schools Forum at UNESCO HQ in Paris, where he contributed to a session on the role of assistive technology in inclusive education environments.
In 2025, David and his colleagues were honoured with two separate Global Inclusion Awards for Nisai and Quillsoft, recognising their work in promoting and supporting equitable, inclusive education worldwide.

Emma Gunn
UK Business Development Manager

Emma Gunn
UK Business Development Manager
Emma has been with Nisai since 2009 and plays a key role as our UK Business Development Manager. Her focus is on building strong relationships with schools, local authorities, and other partners to ensure more young people—especially those unable to thrive in mainstream education—can access Nisai’s flexible and supportive learning solutions.
Working closely with professionals and families, Emma helps shape tailored programmes that meet the unique needs of each student, empowering them to succeed. She is deeply driven by the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young people, their families, and the wider community—particularly when traditional education settings fall short.
Emma brings a rich background of experience, having previously worked as a Project Manager, finance support, fundraiser for a local hospice, and volunteer in peer-to-peer support. Her work at Nisai is grounded in a deep belief that every learner deserves an education that fits—and a future they can believe in.

Laura Hodkinson
Nisai Professional Development Institute Manager

Laura Hodkinson
Nisai Professional Development Institute Manager
Laura has been a key member of Nisai since 2010, bringing over 15 years of experience to her current role coordinating the creation and delivery of learning and training packages for post-formal and adult learners. She also works closely with the Exams team to manage assessment and internal verification across portfolio-based courses at all levels.
With a strong foundation in teacher training, Laura supports the internal development of Nisai’s teaching staff, including overseeing lesson observations and contributing to the continuous improvement of educational practice. She plays an active role in researching and implementing new innovations and collaborates with international partners to deliver UK-quality qualifications globally.
Having progressed through various leadership roles—from teaching English and History, to heading Key Stage 3, English and Humanities, and later the Teaching and Learning department—Laura brings a deep understanding of inclusive education. She believes that everyone deserves access to a tailored educational pathway that meets their individual needs. Her philosophy is rooted in the idea that not all learners fit the same mould, but with the right environment, they can thrive.
Laura holds a Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training, a Level 4 qualification in Internal Verification, and a Level 3 Assessor qualification, reflecting her strong commitment to quality, equity, and lifelong learning.

Tiby Samuel
Head of Technical Services

Tiby Samuel
Head of Technical Services
Tiby joined Nisai in 2014 as the Head of Technical Services, where she is responsible for managing all IT systems and infrastructure. Her primary goal is to ensure that lessons proceed smoothly without technical interruptions, offering essential support to both students and staff.
Tiby considers Nisai her second home and takes immense pride in the impact her team has on students' lives, ensuring seamless access to the Nisai platform and providing top-notch technical assistance. Her dedication to offering a helping hand is a core value she strives to instil within her team.
Prior to joining Nisai, Tiby worked as an IT Support Technician at Mphasis, Micrologic, and Softcom. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science Engineering. Recently, she completed the TCS London Marathon 2025, showcasing her perseverance and determination.

Daniel Skillcorn
Head of Development

Daniel Skillcorn
Head of Development
Daniel leads the IT Development team at Nisai, overseeing the maintenance and continuous improvement of the software and systems that support our operations. Having been with the company since 2013, Daniel is passionate about streamlining processes and ensuring that both students and staff benefit from enhanced, user-friendly systems.
Previously a graphic designer and illustrator, Daniel's background in design contributes to his approach to creating intuitive and efficient solutions. He has successfully launched several key systems, including the NPDI System, NVA 4 and 5, and Nisims 2, all of which have had a significant impact on Nisai’s ability to provide high-quality educational experiences.
Daniel thrives on the challenge of making systems work better, with a focus on continuous improvement to make life easier for both students and staff alike.

Lesley Laws
Head of Teaching & Learning

Lesley Laws
Head of Teaching & Learning
With over 20 years of experience in education, spanning mainstream schools, alternative provision, and the private sector, Lesley brings a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to nurturing student success.
A subject specialist in science, particularly biology and environmental science, she has been with Nisai for more than a decade, where she passionately champions our mission to provide outstanding, accessible, and engaging learning for all students.
Lesley firmly believes in the power of education to shape future leaders and is a dedicated advocate for the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Her unwavering dedication ensures that every learner at Nisai receives the support, encouragement, and opportunity they need to thrive and make a meaningful impact on the world.
Lesley holds a BSc in Secondary Science Education, an HNC in Environmental Science, a PGCE, QTLS, ATS, CTeach, and is a Fellow of the Society for Education and Training (FSET).

Lee Oliver
Lead Teacher

Lee Oliver
Lead Teacher
Lee, who joined Nisai in 2011, is a Lead Teacher. In this role, he works closely with the Head of Teaching and Learning, subject leads, and fellow teachers to uphold the highest standards of education and foster a collaborative, student-focused approach to achievement.
Lee is deeply passionate about the transformative power of education. He views Nisai as the only viable option for delivering holistic, high-quality education to some of the most deprived and hard-to-reach learners across the globe—and is driven by a desire to be part of that life-changing experience for each student.
With a strong commitment to cultivating a positive and dynamic learning environment, Lee is dedicated to supporting and empowering his colleagues. He actively contributes to the development of innovative teaching strategies and promotes a culture of continuous improvement to ensure all students have access to exceptional learning experiences.
Lee holds a Level 5 qualification in Maths and a PGCE. He also brings valuable managerial and training experience from previous roles and has mentored several colleagues through their QTLS and Level 5 education qualifications, reflecting his leadership and dedication to professional growth within the teaching community.

Cassandra Collier
Subject Lead

Cassandra Collier
Subject Lead
Cassandra is a Senior Teacher who joined Nisai in 2022, bringing her expertise in English and Humanities to support and guide our dedicated teaching staff. In her role, she plays a key part in ensuring the highest standards of education through close collaboration with teachers and a focus on student success.
Passionate about creating a positive, dynamic learning environment, Cassandra is committed to ensuring every teacher feels supported and empowered. She works alongside her colleagues to champion the development of innovative teaching strategies and foster a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring all students receive the best possible education.
Cassandra holds a BA(Hons) in English Literature, a PGCE in Secondary English, and is currently pursuing an MA in Education, furthering her commitment to professional growth and excellence in teaching.

Daniel Walker
Subject Lead

Daniel Walker
Subject Lead
Daniel is a Senior Teacher, joining Nisai in 2018. He specialises in Functional Skills and IT, as well as teaching English and History. Senior Teachers like Daniel play a vital role in supporting our dedicated teaching staff by ensuring the highest standards of education through collaboration and guidance.
Passionate about creating a positive, dynamic learning environment, Daniel works closely with his colleagues to develop innovative teaching strategies and foster a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that all students receive the best possible education. His commitment to student success and teacher support is central to his approach.
Daniel holds a BA in Journalism and a PGCE, demonstrating his dedication to professional development and excellence in education.

Amy Hellawell
Customer & Student Support Team Manager

Amy Hellawell
Customer & Student Support Team Manager
Aimi joined Nisai in 2010 and leads our Customer and Student Support Team (CaSST), overseeing key areas such as EHCP, Exams, Student Support, Attendance, and Administration. With a deep commitment to inclusive education, Aimi is passionate about ensuring every student—regardless of background or need—has the opportunity to succeed.
She takes great pride in the vital support her team provides, not only to students but also to their families and wider support networks. Aimi is inspired by Nisai’s student-first ethos, which creates opportunities that many young people might not otherwise have.
Before joining Nisai, Aimi worked in the leisure and hospitality industry, including organising children’s events at a world-renowned tourist attraction. She is also a fully qualified careers advisor, holding a Level 6 Diploma in Career Guidance and Development.

Josephine Outhwaite
Head of Progression, Exams & Qualifications

Josephine Outhwaite
Head of Progression, Exams & Qualifications
Josephine leads the exams function within the Customer and Student Support Team at Nisai, ensuring that all students have a fair opportunity to access education and qualifications. Having joined in 2011, Josephine is deeply committed to the belief that education is a right, not a privilege. She is passionate about creating an inclusive environment where learners are supported to achieve their full potential.
With a personal and professional journey that spans studying and working both at home and abroad, Josephine found her place at Nisai. As someone living with a chronic illness, she is particularly dedicated to advocating for flexible opportunities in education, the workplace, and life, so everyone can access the experiences and success they deserve.
Josephine holds an impressive array of qualifications, including a BA(Hons) in French and History, a Level 3 Certificate in Advice and Information, a Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement, a Higher Certificate in Managing and Administering Examinations, a Level 4 Understanding Children with SEMH Difficulties, and Level 3 and 5 Endorsed Awards in Special Educational Needs Coordination.
Throughout her time at Nisai, she has loved growing both personally and professionally, alongside inspiring learners and colleagues.

Sheena Scott
EHCP Support Services Team Leader

Sheena Scott
EHCP Support Services Team Leader
Sheena leads Nisai’s EHCP Team, overseeing the delivery of vital support services for students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). Her team is responsible for managing mandatory consultations, arranging and facilitating annual, transition, and emergency reviews, completing statutory documentation to local authority deadlines, and coordinating attainment data submissions. Sheena also works closely with parents and carers, providing support and guidance around the challenges their children may face due to special educational needs.
Since joining in 2021, Sheena has introduced and embedded essential EHCP processes and procedures, building a trusted and efficient team that consistently delivers meaningful outcomes for students. She brings over 13 years of experience in education, including roles in a Service Children's School in Cyprus and as a key member of a SEND team in a Dorset secondary school.
Holding a degree in Business and a Diploma in SEND, Sheena is deeply passionate about advocating for students who struggle in mainstream settings. Having witnessed these challenges firsthand, she is committed to ensuring every learner accesses the education they need, want, and deserve. By working closely with students, families, and professionals, she helps young people gain the qualifications and confidence they need to live fulfilling, independent lives. Her work has led to numerous success stories—built on compassion, dedication, and trusted relationships.