Meet the Team

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Our Specialist Trainers

Leadership & SEND Consultancy

Leadership & SEND Consultancy

  • Abi McCarthy Image

    Abi McCarthy

    Fusion Learning Hub Coordinator, Outreach SEND Inclusion Advisor & SEN Teacher
  • Abi McCarthy

    I am a passionate and experienced SEND teacher, with over 17 years of teaching experience. I currently work as an Outreach SEND Inclusion Advisor for the Fusion Hub at Cleaswell Hill. With a specialist focus on Early Years, I am also the English Early Literacy Lead, supporting early communication and literacy development across the setting. I have become qualified as a Level 3 Forest School Lead. I champion outdoor, play-based learning that nurtures the whole child.

    As an AET (Autism Education Trust) Trainer, I am committed to promoting inclusive, autism-friendly practice, empowering educators to create supportive, responsive environments for all learners.
  • Emma Dunn Image

    Emma Dunn

    Deputy Headteacher, Northumberland Lead SENCo, Northumberland SEND Advisor & SEN Teacher
  • Emma Dunn

    Originally a secondary English teacher, I am a dedicated education professional with over 20 years of expertise in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). As a Deputy Headteacher and a local authority SEND advisor, I support schools in effectively managing and nurturing young people with complex additional needs, recognising strengths and how they access learning to achieve their full potential. I am a passionate advocate for inclusive education, grounded in the belief that high expectations, adaptive practice, and a sense of fun are essential for every learner’s success and wellbeing. My work is driven by a deep commitment to creating environments where all learners can thrive and feel valued.
  • Rachael Howitt Image

    Rachael Howitt

    Speech & Language Therapist & NEN Lead Trainer
Specialist Practitioners

Specialist Practitioners

  • Finn McMahon Image

    Finn McMahon

    Higher Level Teaching Assistant
  • Finn McMahon

    I am an HLTA with 6 years of experience working in a SEND setting and an AET trainer with a lived experience and understanding of ADHD and a passionate advocate for Neurodiversity and inclusivity within an educational environment. My practice is highly relational, and I prioritise forming trusted relationships with learners.
  • Helen McIntyre Image

    Helen McIntyre

    DSL, Parent Partnership Coordinator & SEN Teacher
  • Helen Moulton Image

    Helen Moulton

    Intervention Lead, ECT Mentor, Induction Tutor & SEN Teacher
  • Jade Kilpatrick Image

    Jade Kilpatrick

    Rebound Coordinator
  • Jade Kilpatrick

    I’ve been part of the team here at Cleaswell Hill School for over 15 years. I now specialise in delivering Rebound Therapy. It’s a role I find both energising and fulfilling— I enjoy the hands-on nature of the sessions and the unique way rebound supports each pupil’s development. Working closely with the therapy team, I’m proud to contribute to creating a positive, supportive environment where every child can thrive.
  • Jamie Wheadon Image

    Jamie Wheadon

    Extended Phase Lead, Achievement Lead & SEN Teacher
  • Jamie Wheadon

    I have nearly 17 years of experience in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) education, with a primary focus on supporting children accessing the
    National Curriculum. I am committed to promoting and exemplifying high-quality teaching and learning, with an emphasis on innovative, evidence-based practices in the classroom. My professional interests include curriculum development, and the design and delivery of impactful training programs aimed at enhancing the skills of practitioners working with children. I strongly advocate for relational practice, recognising its profound impact on building trust, fostering emotional safety, and improving educational outcomes for all learners.
  • Kelly Dilks Image

    Kelly Dilks

    Speech & Language Therapy Assistant
  • Kelly Dilks

    With over 20 years of experience in education, I bring a deep passion and commitment to supporting children and helping them reach their full potential. Working as a Speech and Language Therapy Assistant and AET (Autism Education Trust) trainer, I’m driven by the belief that every child deserves to feel understood, included, and empowered in their learning. I love working closely with both children and staff to create nurturing, inclusive environments where all learners can thrive. My role is more than a job— it's a calling—and I’m always seeking new ideas and strategies to enrich children’s wellbeing, communication, and educational experiences.
  • Leanne Billington Image

    Leanne Billington

    SEN Teacher
  • Leanne Billington

    I am a dedicated SEND teacher who embraces a Total Communication approach to support the diverse needs of my students. With a strong interest in understanding and responding to challenging behaviours, integrate relational practice to build trust and meaningful connections with each child. I am passionate about early development; drawing on the stages of play to inform my teaching, creating engaging, inclusive learning environments that foster growth, communication, and emotional wellbeing.
  • Molly Cleverley Image

    Molly Cleverley

    SEN Teacher
  • Suzanne Oliver Image

    Suzanne Oliver

    Junior Engagement Phase Lead & SEN Teacher