Teja Singh Sidhu (Chair)

Rod Dubrow-Marshall (Vice Chair)

Navjot Kaur Virk (Vice Chair)

Paula Martin (Governor)

Daljit Singh Virk (Trustee and Governor)

Professor (Dr.) Daljit Singh Virk OBE, PhD, DSc (Birmingham), CBiol, FRSB, is a renowned plant geneticist and retired university professor with over 40 years of teaching, research, and project management experience. He has led numerous international research projects focused on crop improvement for food security in impoverished regions of South Asia and Africa, supported by DFID and other international agencies during his tenure at Bangor University, UK.

His impactful research on poverty alleviation abroad and his contributions to education earned him the Queen’s Honours in 2019, with an OBE award. He has mentored many higher degree students, published books, and authored hundreds of research papers.

Dr. Virk played a key role in establishing Akaal Academy Trust Ltd. as a founding member, and he organized, coordinated, and led the governing team of Akaal Primary School in Derby during its initial stages from 2013 to 2020. He also facilitated the school's merger with the Nishkam Schools Multi-Academy Trust in 2023. Currently, he serves as a member of Akaal’s Local Advisory Board (since December 2023) and the Nishkam Schools MAT Governing Board (since October 2024). Additionally, he is a member of the Sikh Academy Trust in Slough, overseeing two schools.

He is the Head of Education at the Singh Sabha Gurdwara in Derby. As a practicing Sikh, he is well-versed in Sikh history, scriptures, traditions, and practices. Dr. Virk is an accomplished speaker on Sikh topics and has published a book on Sikh religion. He frequently participates in Sikh television discussions and Q&A sessions on socio-religious issues

Jujar Singh (Governor)

Sarbjit Singh Bitter (Governor)

Sharan Kaur Kooner (Staff Governor)

Sharan has been part of the school community for the past six years. As a teacher within the school, she brings first-hand knowledge of classroom practice and the daily experiences of pupils and staff. Her role in governance allows her to contribute a professional perspective while supporting the strategic development of the school. Sharan is passionate about maintaining high standards in education and ensuring that all pupils are supported to achieve their full potential. She is proud to be part of a governing body that works to uphold the ethos and values of Nishkam School Trust.

Tanu Sharma (Parent Governor)

Tanu Sharma is an education professional with a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Derby and Qualified Teacher Status in the UK. She teaching experience in secondary and higher education and has also worked in England as a Cover Supervisor and Supply Teacher. She joined governance to contribute her knowledge of the education system and to support high standards and positive outcomes for all students. Her experience working with diverse learners helps inform her thoughtful and supportive approach to governance.

Narinder Singh Kooner (Parent Governor)