Adam joins the trust from Unity Schools Partnership, where he currently serves as Director of SEND, bringing with him over 18 years of experience in the education sector, and a reputation for ‘advocating for inclusion and special educational needs.’ 

He assumes the post following the year-long tenure of Interim CEO, Jane Nolan. Under Jane, the trust has made substantial progress in driving forward an ambitious commitment to high-quality, inclusive education. Her work has laid a firm foundation on which the trust now confidently builds, and the Board of Trustees thanks Jane for her commitment to the trust, and wishes her every success in her future endeavours as substantive CEO for a multi-academy trust in Hull.

Jane Nolan shared, ‘It has been a genuine privilege to serve Horizons Education Trust during a time of significant change and evolution. I’ve been continually inspired by the dedication of our staff, the resilience of our learners, and the support of our families.

As I move on, I do so with real pride in what we’ve achieved as a community, and with deep appreciation for the support and collaboration I’ve experienced. I have every confidence that the trust will continue to grow and thrive under Adam’s leadership. I wish him - and everyone connected to the trust - every success for the future.’

Adam’s appointment marks a new strategic chapter for the trust, aligned with its vision of nurturing an inclusive culture of ambition and achievement that empowers every learner to flourish.

Adam Dabin said, ‘I am absolutely delighted and privileged to have been given this opportunity to be a part of Horizons Education Trust. I am really looking forward to September, especially getting to meet our children, their families and staff.

There is so much potential across our academies, and I am looking forward to working together and ensuring we provide the very best education, support and opportunity for all of our children.

My career to date has provided me with many experiences and challenges, all of which have shaped my beliefs and values, moulding me into the person I am today – someone who is fiercely passionate about education and opportunities for the SEND community, and someone who will always champion young people to achieve the very best version of themselves.’

Chair of Trustees, Julie Perry, said, ‘It is my belief that our learners are exceptional, showing us every day what is possible when they are understood, supported and empowered. It was a core part of our mission to find someone who believed that too – and in Adam we feel we have found the candidate to drive Horizons Education Trust with passion, empathy and ambition, to the collective benefit of all.’