The Team

Theresa Mills

Head Teacher

• MSc, Child Protection, BA (Hons) English and Art, PGCE

Theresa qualified as a teacher from the University of Birmingham in 1998 and taught as a mainstream secondary teacher of English in the Midlands. Her interest in special education needs developed whilst working as the Head of English for James Brindley Hospital Schools across Birmingham. She completed her SENCO qualification and launched a nurture unit for children with SEMH and other educational needs at Tile Cross Academy, Birmingham.

In 2018, Theresa joined Bladon House School, firstly as the Lead Designated Safeguarding Officer and then assistant headteacher. In 2022, Theresa successfully completed her master’s in Child Protection before joining Maple View as Head Teacher in September 2024.

Andrea Burnett

Deputy Head Teacher

• BA Hons (2nd) English literature and theatre studies
• GTP (teacher qualified training)
• BSL level 2
• Supporting language and learning for pupils with severe learning difficulties- level 3 through Elklan

Andrea joined the Maple View School team in 2020 when the school first opened. She has over 12 years of teaching at secondary level English literature and language (A level Eng Lang specialist), including 8 years as a pastoral manager with oversight for PSHE, a team of teachers, and the attainment, attendance and well-being of 250 students. Andrea also has 3 years experience of working at primary level.

Susan Kirkwood

Senior Therapist

Susan joined the SENAD Group in 2007 after completing her BSc (Hons) in Speech and Language Pathology and Therapeutics. Susan has worked with all age groups within a specialist residential school for children between the ages of 5-19. Susan has additional training in the use and development of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).

Susan Joined Maple View in April 2023, and takes the lead with the delivery of speech language therapy. Susan participates in monthly peer supervision within the Group and line managed by the Headteacher.

Leanne North

Registered Manager/Head of Care (Designate)

Level 3 Award in Education and Training
CPD Level 4 NVQ – Management
CPD Level 3 Diploma Health and Social Care- Children’s

With over 23 years of experience supporting children and young people with special educational needs, Leanne has dedicated her career to providing high-quality care and education. She began her journey in 2002 as a Residential Support Worker at Bladon House School during a gap year before university. Inspired by the positive impact she could make, she chose to remain in the field and has since built extensive expertise in SEN education and care.
Over the years, Leanne has progressed through a variety of leadership roles including Team Leader, House Manager, Care Coordinator, and Deputy Head of Care. Her wealth of experience and passion for supporting children with additional needs continue to drive her work in leading and developing the care provision at Maple View School.