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.

Sara Craggs

Head Teacher, Safeguarding Lead
Sara has been Head Teacher at Cavendish since 2004. She has spent nearly all her working life in Education with most of her career in Special Education Needs. Sara is a specialist Science teacher but has also taught in primary schools. Sara is an expert gardener and cook, often combining the two hobbies by making jams and chutneys to the delight of staff.

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!