Lynnette has over 40 years experience working in the field of Special Educational Needs. She has an initial Bachelor of Education degree in Special education and a Masters degree in children's autism from Birmingham university. She has taught children with profound and complex needs in a range of settings. Lynnette has been Headteacher at Lakeside School for 8 years and in that time has led the school through and outstanding OFSTED inspection and overseen a complete overhaul of curriculum and assessment. Lynnette is a passionate advocate for children with learning difficulties and advises local main stream schools.

Deputy Head
Behaviour Lead, Autism Team, Communication Lead, DSP

I am deeply passionate about supporting children with special educational needs because I believe every child deserves not only to be understood, but to truly be seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are. I began my journey at the school as a volunteer, where I quickly formed meaningful connections with the pupils and saw first-hand the difference that patience, empathy, and consistency can make. This experience inspired me to become a Learning Support Assistant, allowing me to play a more active role in each child’s journey.
I qualified as a teacher in 2016, which has strengthened both my knowledge and my commitment to inclusive, child-centred practice. I am especially passionate about advocating for pupils whose needs may not always be immediately understood. I firmly believe that all behaviour is a form of communication, and I take pride in looking beyond the surface to understand each child’s emotions, experiences, and individual ways of expressing themselves.
Building strong, trusting relationships is at the heart of everything I do. I am driven by those small but powerful moments—when a child feels safe enough to engage, gains confidence, or achieves something they once found challenging. Seeing pupils grow in independence, self-belief, and happiness is what motivates me every day, and I am committed to ensuring that every child I support feels valued, respected, and capable of success.

Assistant Head Teacher
MOVE associate trainer, careers adviser, DDSP, DST, Education Visits co-ordinator Designated senior teacher, Careers lead, Gatsby bench marks, Service for young people lead, Work experience co-ordinator, Transition lead. Responsible for – strategic management and development of school satellite provision, transition with PE specialist subject.

BA (HONS) in Primary Education with QTS. NPQML NPQSL

My journey into teaching began when I realised my passion was working with people, not pursuing a qualification in business and finance. I am committed to supporting and inspiring every pupil, particularly those with the highest levels of need, to thrive.
I believe learning is not one-size-fits-all, and that every small step of progress matters. My approach focuses on preparing pupils for life beyond school through independence, life skills, and meaningful experiences.
I strive to create an inclusive environment where every child is valued, barriers are removed, and all achievements are celebrated.

Assistant Head Teacher
Sensory Impairment and PMLD Lead, Multisensory Impairment Specialist Teacher, DSP, IT and Maths Lead, MOVE Senior Practitioner.

BEd. (Hons) Primary Education (with QTS), MA. Education, PGDip. Teaching Children and Young People with Multisensory Impairments (QTMSI).

During my A Levels, I decided to pursue a teaching degree as the fastest route into becoming a teacher. Initially aiming for mainstream primary education, I was inspired by a visit to a special school where I saw how pupils with barriers to learning were supported to achieve independence. I then gained supply work in an SLD school, working with pupils with PMLD and sensory impairments, which sparked a strong passion for this field. This led me to complete a placement and begin my teaching career in a special school, eventually joining Lakeside in September 2016. Since then, I have specialised in supporting pupils with PMLD and sensory impairments, completing a Multisensory Impairment qualification and helping staff and students access learning more effectively

Assistant Head Teacher
Assessment

BMus(Hons), PGCE, NPQLT, NPQSL
Following a stint working in music for the BBC and Serious Music Production Company, I retrained as a teacher in 2009. I started my journey as a secondary music teacher, and since have taught in a range of secondary schools, primary school and SEND settings, across a variety of roles. At Lakeside I am responsible for Assessment, which includes SCERTS, Engagement, RfL and EHCP processes. I run the weekly music assembly, and am the link role for our Handside Partnership.