Senior Management Team

Cavendish School has five members of its senior management staff.

Cheryl Stepton

Managing Director/Proprietor, Deputy Safeguarding Deputy
Cheryl set up the school in June 2000, based originally at Surrey Dock Stadium SE16. As MD her role is to manage the commercial side of the school and administer the financial control but also to advise and support the general running of the school. Cheryl is a keen water-skier and enjoys the occasional round of golf.

Debbie Sycamore

Assistant Head, Safeguarding Lead
Debbie joined the school in June 2007. Prior to joining Cavendish Debbie worked in the Lift industry, hotel industry, a primary school and London Ambulance Service. As Human Resources Manager it is up to Debbie to ensure that the school complies with all employment law and Health and safety regulations; recruitment, management of staff documentation, training, introducing new and updating policy and procedures, health and safety within and staff welfare.

Lesley Craggs

Head Teacher, Safeguarding Lead
Lesley is the newly appointed Head Teacher at Cavendish School, bringing over 30 years of experience in education. With more than a decade of senior leadership under her belt, this is her first post as head teacher, and she is excited to lead the school toward continued growth and success. Lesley is deeply committed to providing a supportive and enriching environment for students, and her extensive background in education positions her perfectly to guide Cavendish in its mission to meet the needs of its students.

Jason Dornelly

PE Coordinator/Head of Learning Support
Jason has worked at Cavendish since October 2000. Previously Jason worked as a Residential Key Worker for children’s homes. He is a qualified football coach and has managed men’s, women’s and youth teams and most recently girl’s teams at Hackney Wick FC.

Desmond Lewis

Assistant Head / DT Teacher, Designated Safeguarding Deputy
Desmond qualified as teacher in 1992 and started at mainstream school. He discovered his calling to SEND prior to joining the Cavendish team in early 2013 when he worked in a Pupil Referral Unit. Whilst in the PRU, Desmond volunteered and worked with The Black Police Association to support black year 10’s to make the right choices. Desmond risks life and limb very Sunday playing football often ending up in goal due to his injuries. Desmond loves to recycle!