Jenny McConnell, Principal

Jenny proudly serves as the Principal of Dawn House School, bringing over 18 years of experience in therapy and educational leadership. Initially joining the school as Head of Therapy, she led a pioneering team that continues to deliver a transdisciplinary approach to meeting students' complex needs. Since taking the helm as Principal in 2017, Jenny has been instrumental in shaping and driving the school's vision for the future. Her leadership is underscored by her completion of the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL), through which she now oversees the strategic development of the school and contributes to the broader initiatives of Speech and Language UK.

Jenny's journey began with a BSc in Speech Pathology and Therapy, which led her to work in the NHS, specialising in supporting children with Speech, Language, and Communication challenges, as well as young adults affected by head trauma or neurological conditions, and children in special education. Her dedication to the field extended to serving on the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists' management board, representing the non-maintained sector, and she currently holds a trustee position with the National Association of Independent Schools & Non-Maintained Special Schools (NASS).

For over a decade, Jenny championed safeguarding efforts at Dawn House School and remains actively involved in its operational and strategic implementation. Her commitment to safeguarding was a key factor in the school's outstanding Ofsted outcome in 2023. Jenny’s multifaceted expertise and unwavering dedication continue to foster an environment of excellence and innovation at Dawn House School.

Ben Norman, Deputy Principal 

Ben is the driving force behind the educational programs at Dawn House, ensuring excellence for all pupils. His journey began with a degree in Information Technology, followed by qualifying as a teacher from Huddersfield University in 2012. Initially teaching Computing and PE in a mainstream secondary school, Ben  took on additional roles within the pastoral team, eventually becoming Head of Year.

His career path then led him to the apprenticeships sector, where he specialized in IT, Marketing, and Accountancy qualifications at a national provider. In 2016, Ben transitioned to the SEN sector, taking on roles such as Head of Key Stage, IT Coordinator, Maths Lead, and Careers Lead at a school in Derbyshire. Notably, he spearheaded the Hub, a specialised provision catering to pupils with Autism and associated complex behaviors.

Recognised for his leadership, Ben was promoted to Assistant Headteacher in 2020, overseeing behaviour and attitudes to learning school-wide. In January 2023, he assumed the role of Deputy Principal at Dawn House School, further solidifying his commitment to enhancing educational outcomes. Dedicated to professional growth  he embarked on his NPQH qualification in October 2023.

Jacinta Burke, Assistant Head Teacher

Jacinta has responsibility for KS3 and 4.  After a degree in Fine Art, Jacinta qualified as a teacher from De Montfort University in 1999 and worked in secondary education as a Head of Art , KS3 Coordinator and Transitions Coordinator for a number of years, before spending some time as SENCO and Assistant Headteacher in a Learning Centre, a role which included responsibility as a Designated Safeguarding Lead and a Literacy Coordinator.

Jacinta came to Dawn House School in September  2012 as an English Coordinator. She worked as a tutor in KS3 and 4 before becoming Assistant Headteacher. Jacinta also works as member of the Assessment Service team. 

Andrea Robinson, Head of Therapy and Assessment Service

Andrea qualified from De Montfort University in 2007 and worked initially for the NHS as a Speech and Language Therapist with a range of children from 0 to 18. During her time at the NHS she specialised in stammering and worked in specialist schools for children with ASD and communication disorders.

Andrea came to Dawn House School in December 2014 as an SLT Coordinator. She worked across the age ranges, starting in the Sixth Form, moving then to the Primary class, Chimes and KS4.  Andrea became Head of Therapy in April 2018 supporting and line managing the Therapy and Wellbeing Team in school.  Andrea completed a Level 5 course in Leadership and Management of Social Care and Children’s Services in December 2018.  Andrea is passionate about speech and language therapy and the wider impact of children's communication on their life chances and is the Trustee for the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists for the north of England. 

Andrea has achieved many awards throughout her career including the Advancing Healthcare Award for putting speech and language therapy "Into the Limelight" and "Overall Winner" in 2012. 

Karen Lindley, Finance and School Business Manager

Karen, MSc, CGMA, is a Chartered Accountant (CIMA) with a rich academic and professional background. She earned her degree in Oriental Studies from the University of Oxford in 1986, followed by a post-graduate diploma in Hotel, Catering & Institutional Management from Leeds Beckett University in 1988. She later completed a Master's degree in Information Management & Finance from the University of Westminster in 2001.

In March 2023, Karen achieved a Level 7 Diploma in School Financial and Organisational Leadership from CIPFA (Chartered Institute of Public Finance & Accountancy) and ISBL (Institute of School Business Leadership).

Karen's career spans extensive experience in finance, procurement, and cost control roles within major London hotels. She has also served as a Financial Controller for a management consultancy, further enhancing her expertise. Additionally, Karen holds ISO Qualified Lead Auditor status in Information Security Management and Business Continuity.

A fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA), Karen also serves as Treasurer on the trustee board of Ignite!, a Nottingham-based charity dedicated to promoting STEM subjects in schools.

Since joining the school in August 2020 as the Finance and School Business Manager, Karen has overseen the school business office, including Finance, HR and recruitment, Procurement, IT, Site Management, Catering, and the administration and domestic teams. She is currently pursuing the National Professional Qualification in Executive Leadership (NPQEL).