Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Gina Donaldson

Gina Donaldson is the CEO of the Rainbow Education Multi-Academy Trust.  She is deeply committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of background or circumstances, has the best chance of success. Gina is passionate about closing the disadvantage gap, promoting equity in education, and fostering opportunities for all children to reach their full potential. She facilitates the National Professional Qualification for Executive Leadership (NPQEL) and is involved in various strategic initiatives, including being a representative on the Liverpool Priority Area Partnership Board as well as taking part in research work around the uses of AI and technology in education.

 

Chief Operating Officer (COO)
James Ray

James Ray was appointed in 2020 as the CFOO for the Rainbow Education Multi-Academy Trust. He brings extensive experience in strategic financial and operational leadership across the education sector. James’s expertise spans strategic and operational management of finance, human resources, facilities and estate management, capital development, legal compliance, health and safety, and data governance.

In his role, James is responsible for developing and leading the Trust’s Resource Management strategy. He is supported by a skilled and dedicated team, whose collaboration he greatly values.

James also oversees the academy conversion process for the Trust, offering comprehensive support to schools through both the pre- and post-conversion stages.

 

Director of School Improvement
Sarah Knipe

Sarah Knipe was appointed as the Director of School Improvement for Rainbow Education Multi-Academy Trust in 2024, following her success as an Executive Headteacher within the Trust. Sarah has a proven track record of transforming schools facing significant challenges, driving rapid and sustained improvements in outcomes and leadership capacity.

With extensive experience in assessment and data, Sarah excels in using robust evidence to inform decision-making and drive improvement. She is passionate about helping schools harness the power of data to identify priorities, measure impact, and ensure that each every child achieves their potential.

In her role as Director of School Improvement, Sarah leads the development and implementation of strategies to enhance teaching, learning, and leadership across the Trust’s schools. She works closely with school leaders, teachers, and staff to embed best practices, build capacity, and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.

Sarah is a strong advocate for inclusive, values-driven leadership and believes in creating environments where both staff and children can thrive. Her unwavering commitment to excellence ensures that each and every school within the Trust provides the highest quality education for all children. 

 

HR Manager
Nicola Tierney

Nicola Tierney has been the HR Manager for Rainbow Education Multi-Academy Trust since 2021, bringing extensive experience in human resources across the education sector. Passionate about fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture, Nicola is dedicated to staff well-being, professional development, and championing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).

In her role, Nicola leads on developing and implementing HR strategies that support the Trust’s vision, ensuring staff are valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. She is committed to creating opportunities for continuous professional growth and promoting a workplace where everyone feels respected and included.

 

Estates Manager
Liam Haughey

Liam Haughey has been the Trust Estates Manager for Rainbow Education Multi-Academy Trust since 2018. With a strong focus on health and safety, compliance, and risk assessment, Liam ensures that all Trust schools provide safe, secure, and well-maintained environments for pupils and staff.

Liam is also highly skilled in securing funding for schools, supporting capital projects, and delivering improvements across the Trust’s estates. His proactive and meticulous approach plays a key role in enabling schools to focus on delivering the best possible education in high-quality facilities.

 

Marketing, Media and Communications Officer
Bob Burton

Bob Burton has been the Media and Marketing Officer for Rainbow Education Multi-Academy Trust since 2023. Having previously worked as a teacher within the Trust for over 14 years, Bob brings extensive knowledge of its vision and values, along with a deep understanding of its schools and communities.

In his role, Bob supports both the Trust and its schools with marketing, website management, and wider communications. His work ensures that the Trust’s achievements, values, and initiatives are effectively shared, helping to strengthen its connection with families, staff, and the wider community.

 

Governance Officer
Kerry Morris

Kerry Morris has been the Governance Professional for Rainbow Education Multi-Academy Trust since 2022. In her role, she provides expert support and guidance to the Trust's Trustees, Members, and each school’s Local Academy Council, ensuring that governance processes are robust, effective, and aligned with the Trust’s vision.

Kerry is passionate about supporting the many dedicated volunteers who give their time to serve as members, trustees, and governors. She values their commitment to the Trust, its schools, and—most importantly—its children. Her work ensures that these volunteers are equipped to make informed decisions that drive positive outcomes for children and their communities.