Staff

Senior Leadership Team

**Mrs A Dawson: Executive Headteacher**

I graduated from the University of Kent at Canterbury in 1998 with BA (Hons) in English and American Literature, completing my Post Graduate Certificate in Education from the University of East Anglia the following year. I completed my NPQH in 2021 and my MA in Education in 2026.
I have been Headteacher at Acorn since September 2019. Prior to this, I worked in mainstream secondary schools for twenty years, taking leadership roles in behaviour management and pastoral care.
I am a fan of renovation and interiors and like nothing more than browsing online for new ideas to decorate our home!
Leading Acorn is a massive privilege and I am very proud of the evolution of our school in recent years. I am humbled every day by my staff’s commitment to changing the aspirations of the young people in our care.

**Mrs L Shury: Head of School**

I graduated in 2005 from Edge Hill University with a BSc in Secondary Design and Technology with Qualified Teacher Status. My first teaching post was in Grimsby delivering Design Technology where I stayed for 9 years.
My passion for developing a career through a pastoral route led me to move to Acorn in 2014 as Senior Teacher running the KS4 academic group. I am now Deputy Head teacher in charge of Pastoral Care and love being able to support our students.
I have four dogs and enjoy taking them to run through the local countryside. In 2017 I set myself the challenge of gaining my motorbike license and now spend many school holidays touring Europe and the UK.

**Mrs R Rowe: Business Manager**

I graduated from Heriot-Watt University with a BSc in Environmental Management and Technology, I then went on to study at Leeds University graduating with a MSc in Catchment Dynamics and Management. Following this I worked for a civil engineering company as a Hydrologist primarily on flood defence projects for the Environment Agency. In 2011 when my children were small I decided to retrain and I undertook level 3 and 4 AAT accounting qualifications at Lincoln College.
I have been at Acorn since we opened in 2013 initially as Finance Officer before taking on the role of Business Manager and Chief Financial officer in 2015. I completed the ISBL level 7 certificate in School Financial and Operational Management in 2019.
Away from Acorn I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking and being outdoors gardening, camping, cycling and canoeing.

**Mrs N Desmond: Assistant Headteacher**

I graduated from The University of Sheffield with a BA Hons in English and History before attending Keele University where I completed my PGCE in Secondary English. I have been teaching English and Sociology in a number of mainstream secondary schools in Lincolnshire since 2000 before joining Acorn in January of 2022.
I took a couple of years out of secondary school teaching to teach in primary schools but my passion for teaching English Literature pulled me back in, and I love nothing better than reading a good book with the students as well as in my free time.
Away from the classroom, my time is devoted to my children and renovating our Victorian cottage. I also enjoy camping holidays and cosy nights in, watching Scandinavian crime dramas.

Teaching Team

**Mr M Chapman**

My career began working in the motor industry as a Technician and was happy in that role for 22 years. I decided to complete my teaching qualifications and achieved a Batchelors Degree in Education and Training.
I also hold qualifications as an Internal and External Assessor, working with schools and further education providers to help young people gain vocational qualifications. I have worked in education institutions across the County. I joined the Acorn Team in September 2022 and am keen to work with the staff and young people as a part of the Mechanical Engineering department.

**Mr T Boast**

I graduated from the University of Central Lancashire in 2009 with a degree in Journalism and qualified as a primary school teacher in 2011 after completing the Graduate Teacher Programme. Since then, I have worked in a range of school settings in the UK and internationally and loved working in Hong Kong for four years. After returning to the UK, I have worked in SEN schools and as a supply teacher and am now relishing the opportunity of working at Acorn. I am currently working towards completing my NPQSENCO, which I am finding both rewarding and challenging.
Outside of school, I love travelling and spending time outdoors. I was fortunate enough to combine both of my passions by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and have also trekked in the Himalayas. look forward to taking my young family on similar adventures in the future. I also love sports - both watching & playing, especially football, cricket, golf & squash.

**Mrs S Cook**

I graduated from Edge Hill College with a degree in English and Drama and went on to work for Help the Aged, The York and County Pres and York Theatre Royal before turning to teaching to share my passion for English Language and Literature. After 14 years teaching in the UK, I branched out and am now returning after 6 years working in Spain and 4 years in the UAE. Ten great years when I have learned a lot.
Originally from the North West, I moved to Yorkshire and brought up my children in the 80s and I am delighted to be settling into a very old house near my family in Newark, hoping to indulge my obsession with paint and soft furnishings. I am also a great fan of theatre and drama and can't wait to be part of and attend shows and plays here in the UK- something I really missed overseas.
I am looking forward to being part of the Acorn team, helping and supporting students on their educational journey. And, hopefully, having some fun along the way!

‍ ‍ Miss T Lawal

I am a teacher with over nine years of experience across Nigeria and the UK. I hold a BSc in Chemistry Education, an MSc in Industrial Chemistry and an MSc in Forensic Science from the University of Lincoln, alongside UK Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

I have taught Science and Chemistry across KS3 and KS4, including GCSE and IGCSE, and I currently teach both Science and Maths at Acorn. I enjoy helping students develop their understanding and confidence through clear explanations, practical activities, problem-solving and opportunities to connect their learning to real-life situations.

Creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment is very important to me. I particularly enjoy helping students recognise their strengths, overcome barriers to learning and develop the confidence to make progress. I also have a strong interest in STEM and have previously led science fairs, STEM activities, and environmental projects, including establishing a Green Club.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading and watching a good sitcom. I also enjoy keeping active through sports, particularly basketball, volleyball and handball, as well as spending time outdoors and exploring new places with my family.

It is an absolute privilege to be part of Acorn. I continue to love getting to know our students, supporting their learning, and helping them recognise exactly what they are capable of achieving.

SEND

Engagement Team

**Mrs T Lilley:Senior Engagement & Outreach Officer**

I gained my Bed Hons Degree at Nottingham Trent University and began my teaching career in a Primary school in Lincoln. I spent many years within the primary school system where I found a love for behaviour that challenged, children with additional needs and supporting the mental health of both parents and their children. My passion lies with understanding links with behaviour and past trauma, particularly Attachment. Following these interests, I went on to study a Post Graduate SEND qualification at Bishop Grosseteste.
After leaving teaching I went on to work with families in the Children’s Centres of Lincolnshire, it was whilst working here that my passion for mental health developed further as I began to work on supporting and developing family attachments. This led me to my Counselling qualifications, where I went on to gain my Diploma in Counselling skills and theory, as well as a Specialist Diploma in Counselling Children and young people; I am a registered BACP Counsellor. I have since gained further CPD around Suicidal Ideations, Self-harm, and Narcissism as well as gaining a Mental Health First aider qualification
My interests include reading, supporting my own children with their sports (swimming and football) and spending time with my family; movie nights, music concerts and long walks being our favourite family pastimes.

**Ms J Brownlow: Engagement & Outreach Officer**

In 2009 I graduated from university with a degree in Criminology and Social Policy, I then spent time raising my family. As my children grew I fell into voluntary roles at their schools and nurseries, this led me to realisation that working in an educational setting was definitely where I wanted to be. I love how busy schools are and the shared sense of purpose within them.
In 2021 I completed my Post-Graduate Certificate in Education and spend the following year working in one of the schools where I had been on placement. Since then I have taught at a primary level and performed support roles in secondary school. I came to Acorn in Easter 2024 as a teaching assistant, since then I have moved into the engagement team which I absolutely love. I feel lucky to be part of such a cracking team and privileged to be working with some truly outstanding and unique young people.
Outside of work I love a good book. I enjoy spending time with my big, noisy family and working on my crumbly, old house.

**Mrs L Tonks: Engagement & Outreach Officer**

I started my journey as a Teaching Assistant in a primary school - I was in this role for over 9 years. I then completed a BA Honours Degree with QTS and taught in the same Primary school for 3 years. In 2021, I had my little girl and took some time off with her. I am now lucky enough to have the opportunity to be working alongside a fantastic team of people and wonderful students as an Engagement Officer at Acorn.
During the journey within education, I was finding there was a gap in mainstream schools for supporting children and young people as people, not just with academics as well as mental health. This is and always has been a huge passion. I became a teacher as I was determined to give time to students who needed to talk and ensure these needs were met. I feel so fortunate to be now working in a role where the pastoral needs of students are the centre of our work.
I have recently completed a course in Drawing and Talking Therapy and I very much look forward to offering this from September.
In the future, I am excited to continue developing my knowledge and experiences within psychology and therapeutic methods. I may continue my masters in psychology.
In my own time, I love spending time with my husband, daughter and dog. We like visits to the woods or going to water parks. I enjoy crafts; I find it therapeutic and helps to calm my mind.

**Mrs R Harper – Head of Personal Development**

I studied Psychology, Criminology, Sociology and English Literature at A-Level, and in 2008, graduated from the University of Lincoln with a BA Honours in Journalism.
I have been working at Acorn since 2021, when I joined as a TA and achieved my Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship.
Now, as Head of Personal Development, I support our young people in making well-informed choices about their Post-16 Pathways.
I aim to motivate our students to become ambitious young adults and I enjoy providing opportunities for them to explore their options for the future.
As Student Council Leader, I appreciate working alongside our dedicated and conscientious Student Representatives, and by designing and implementing the school rewards system, I am able to celebrate the achievements and hard work of all of our young people with the rest of the Acorn community.
Outside of school I enjoy spending time with my own children and supporting them in their hobbies.
We like to walk our family dog and love to spend time outdoors.

**Miss C Hansen: Trainee Engagement & Outreach Officer**

I have worked continuously in the Education sector for the past 12 years. I graduated from University in 2017 with a BA Honours degree in Childhood Studies. During my time as Deputy Manager of an Early Years setting, I worked closely with families and external professionals to ensure their children were able to access a fair education from a young age, and created a foundation of effective communication and inclusivity to support parents/carers and the students also. I am looking forward to continuing this within my role as an Engagement officer at Acorn and in the wider community, with the support from the great team around me.
I am very invested in creating an inclusive and understanding environment, where the students feel comfortable to express themselves in a safe way, allowing us, the Engagement Team, to work with them to put strategies and plans in place to further their education and personal understanding.

Miss E Brown: Engagement Officer/Teaching Assistant

I graduated from the University of York in 2024 with a BSc in Psychology.

After graduating, I began working at a special educational needs school, where I worked closely with children with a wide range of needs. It was during this role that I discovered my passion for supporting children, particularly those who may find aspects of education challenging. This experience inspired me to continue developing my skills and pursuing a career where I can make a positive difference in the lives of young people.

I feel very lucky to be part of the Acorn community and to have the opportunity to support students and help them feel happy, confident and able to reach their potential. In the future, I hope to further develop my knowledge and experience in supporting children and continue growing within my role at Acorn.

In my spare time, I enjoy bouldering and rock climbing, as well as art and photography. I also love cooking and baking, spending time with my family, and going on adventures with my dog

Miss E Reid: Engagement Officer & Outreach Officer

I recently graduated from Bishop Lincoln University with a first-class Counselling Practitioner honours degree. My degree required me to gain counselling experience with a local charity, which I continue to support in my spare time.

uring my degree I spent some time focussing on therapeutic practice that could engage clients who might otherwise find it difficult to express their feelings – such as music therapy. I believe passionately in helping people to engage with their emotions and to understand how their experiences influence their life. I get a great deal of satisfaction by supporting people, through a person-centred approach, to overcome some of the challenges they face.

I am delighted to be part of the team at Acorns and to be working with the children attending the school. Helping to support them to overcome the challenges they might face and to help them reach their potential is very rewarding.

Outside of my professional life I enjoy my charity work, making music, travelling and helping to set up home for the first time since leaving university.

Teaching Assistant Team

**Miss S Brett-Hansen: Teaching Assistant**

**Mr J Chavner: Teaching Assistant**

I graduated from BIMM Manchester with a degree in Popular Music Performance in Drums. I initially got into teaching when I spent a month in Poland teaching English in summer camps and gained a TEFL Certification. After my time in Poland, I taught English online before finding work as a learning mentor, primarily teaching English Language as well as Guitar and Drums.

Outside of teaching, I enjoy reading, writing, football, music, and travelling. I've been fortunate enough to have travelled through a majority of Europe, most recently spending a month in Germany and the surrounding countries.

Ms A Clark-Emmerson: Teaching Assistant

I recently completed a BA (Hons) in Special Educational Needs Disability and Inclusion and I am passionate about supporting young people to overcome barriers to education, helping them to engage with learning and reach their potential.

I am really excited to have joined the team at Acorn and to be a part of a setting that recognises that every young person is different and may need a different approach to help them succeed.

Outside of work, I enjoy Knitting and crochet, but also like trying out different crafts and learning new skills. I enjoy spending time with my family and, when I get the chance, settling down with a good book.

Miss N Radzewicz: Teaching Assistant

By the time I had graduated from Kingston University in 2025, with a bachelors in Fine Art and Art History, I discovered the power that lies within the act of creating; it’s unique ability in revealing the inner mind.

Since then, I knew I wanted to support children who struggle to communicate verbally and those who aren’t aware of their emotions.

I have worked as a supply TA, until I eventually settled at Acorn. Since my time here, I have completed an Art therapy & counselling course. I offer art sessions throughout the week, where I support students in exploring what’s hard to say, solving problems and building a clearer self-understanding. I believe visualisation is an incredible tool, that can help students imagine exciting possibilities for their futures.

Outside of school, I enjoy physical activities and anything spontaneous, as well as reading and painting. I’m also looking forward to travelling more this year and exploring new cities and cultures.

Miss I Starkie: Teaching Assistant

I studied Psychology, Sociology, and English Language at A-level which led me to undertake my undergraduate degree in Psychology at the University of Worcester. Within my studies, I became particularly interested in education and the factors that can impact academic achievement.

I have joined the Acorn School this September (2026) as a teaching assistant and aim to provide a supportive role for the students and teachers. I am so glad I get to be a part of the students’ educational journeys.

Outside of work, I enjoy drawing, reading, and going to the gym. I also like playing volleyball from time to time.

Miss N McGuire: Teaching Assisstant

I graduated from the University of Lincoln with a BA (Hons) in Photography, before beginning my career in education at a specialist SEN school in my hometown of Dover, working across both primary and secondary settings.

I’m passionate about creating positive, supportive relationships with the children I work with and helping them feel confident to be themselves and achieve their potential.

Outside of school, I love spending time with my family, getting lost in a good book and exploring the world around me.

Admin Team

**Mrs S Tan: Chief Operations Officer/Clerk to Governors**

I have mainly worked within the finance sector. My roles have largely been based around office management, administration and customer service. As an office manager my responsibilities were ensuring the smooth and effective running of an administrative team. I was also Personal Assistant to the company director and was in charge of the business management and administration of 5 financial advisors and their clients.
Outside of work I love to go running and enjoy activities which are based on physical fitness. My children and I like to bake and we also enjoy eating out. I also like to spend some time with a good book.
My job role at Acorn allows me to utilise the skills I have gained throughout my career. I enjoy being part of a team and experiencing new challenges.

**Mrs K Hardy: Finance Manager**
I have worked within the finance sector for several years, which includes gaining valuable experience within student finance at Oxford Brookes University. I studied AAT in Accounting at Lincoln College and have recently completed the CIPFA Certificate in Financial Reporting for Academies.

In my role here at Acorn, I enjoy utilizing my finance background to ensure our day-to-day processes run smoothly and efficiently.

Outside of work, I love staying active if I’m not at the gym you can usually find me on a dog walk with my 2 Chows, reading a good book or looking for my next adventure.

Miss K Hanson: Administrator

I am part of the administration team at Acorn. Having spent most of my professional career in office-based environments, including administration and project management roles, I am delighted to be part of the Acorn team. I enjoy working in a busy school environment where every day is different and being able to use my skills to support both the school and its pupils

Outside of work, my family is at the centre of everything I do, and I love spending quality time with family and friends.

While I am definitely a homebody at heart, I also love exploring new places and discovering a great coffee shop. I enjoy balancing quiet time at home with my three children and creating special memories with the people who matter most to me.

Mrs J Thacker: Receptionist

Before joining the school, I spent nine years working at a local College, where I thrived off working within a busy reception, behind the scenes administration, apprenticeships and all things construction!

I particularly enjoyed the people facing side of my role, so I’m looking forward to bringing my experience, friendly approach and love of working with people and learners into my new role at the school.

Outside of work, I’m kept busy with my children and love making the most of the great outdoors with them. We enjoy riding our bikes, walking the dog and generally getting out and about as much as possible. And, of course, no good walk or bike ride is complete without a well earned pub lunch at the end!

I’m looking forward to getting to know the pupils, families and wider school community and becoming part of such a lovely team.

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