Meet the Team
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Our Specialist Trainers
Leadership & SEND Consultancy
Leadership & SEND Consultancy
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Abi McCarthy
Fusion Learning Hub Coordinator, Outreach SEND Inclusion Advisor & SEN Teacher -
Emma Dunn
Deputy Headteacher, Northumberland Lead SENCo, Northumberland SEND Advisor & SEN Teacher -
Rachael Howitt
Speech & Language Therapist & NEN Lead Trainer
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.
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
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.
Specialist Practitioners
Specialist Practitioners
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Finn McMahon
Higher Level Teaching Assistant -
Helen McIntyre
DSL, Parent Partnership Coordinator & SEN Teacher -
Helen Moulton
Intervention Lead, ECT Mentor, Induction Tutor & SEN Teacher -
Jade Kilpatrick
Rebound Coordinator -
Jamie Wheadon
Extended Phase Lead, Achievement Lead & SEN Teacher -
Kelly Dilks
Speech & Language Therapy Assistant -
Leanne Billington
SEN Teacher -
Molly Cleverley
SEN Teacher -
Suzanne Oliver
Junior Engagement Phase Lead & SEN Teacher
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.
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
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.
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
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
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.