Jim studied Design at Nottingham Trent University, graduating with a first-class honours degree, before completing his PGCE at Manchester Metropolitan University. He later gained a Master’s degree in Design Education from Sheffield Hallam University and holds the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH). Jim is also a Level 7 qualified professional leadership and executive coach, reflecting his commitment to developing leaders and building strong professional cultures in schools. 

Jim began teaching in 2004 at Tupton Hall School, before moving to Hope Valley College in 2007, where he became Head of Design & Technology, Head of House and Lead Coach. Over nine years, he developed innovative STEM curricula and introduced whole-school coaching to improve teaching practice. 

In 2015, Jim moved into senior leadership, working for the Nova Education Trust, first as Assistant Headteacher at Alfreton Grange School, then as Vice Principal at NUAST, where he helped establish a new specialist STEM school in Nottingham. He joined Meden School in 2018 as Deputy Headteacher and was appointed Headteacher a year later. 

As Headteacher of Meden School, Jim provided strategic leadership to ensure high academic standards and a thriving school community. Under his leadership, students consistently achieved above the national average at GCSE and A Level for student progress and value added. He set high expectations for learning and achievement, coached and developed staff to enhance their impact to support student achievement and personal development. During this time, Meden was recognised nationally as a Voice 21 Centre of Excellence for Oracy, showcasing its commitment to empowering students with the confidence and skills to communicate effectively. 

Alongside his school leadership roles, Jim is a trustee of EngineeringUK, a national not-for-profit organisation working with schools, industry, and government to inspire the next generation of engineers and increase diversity in engineering and technology careers. He has also contributed nationally as an exam developer for A-Level Engineering and as a Design & Technology curriculum consultant for the DfE, supporting high standards in design and engineering education. 

In 2023, Jim became Strategic Trust Lead for Culture & Coaching with Nova Education Trust, alongside his headteacher role at Meden, supporting leaders across 20 schools to develop strong cultures and effective leadership. 

Jim joined Silverdale School in 2025 as Headteacher, bringing his passion for coaching, culture, and high-quality teaching and learning to the school community.