Jenni Wright
Ilkeston,Derbyshire
Summary
Driven professional with exceptional leadership and strategic planning skills, coupled with talent for fostering collaboration and guiding teams towards common goals. Proven ability to analyse complex issues and implement innovative solutions. Eager to make significant impact in the Neighbourhood Board Chair role.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
9
9
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Headteacher of special educational needs school
Bennerley Fields School
Ilkeston, Derbyshire
2022.09 - Current
- Strategic long and short term decision making
- Creating culture and vision to support both pupil and staff well being
- Working with a range of partnerships both within the school, Esteem MAT and the local area
- Developed unique curriculum for special educational needs students.]
- Fostered strong relationships with parents and carers, enhanced overall communication
- Implemented new teaching methods for improved student engagement.
- Established effective staff development programmes to boost teaching quality
- Ensured compliance with education regulations and policies for smooth operations
Chair of Governors
Firbeck Academy
Wollaton, Nottinghamshire
2025.11 - Current
- Held the school leadership team to account
- Gave professional challenge and advice
- Monitored practice and provisions
- Ensured compliance and accountability
- Was a co-opted governor and then Vice Chair for 3 years before becoming Chair
Teacher
Range of schools
Nottinghamshire
2002.09 - 2022.08
- English and drama teacher in mainstream secondary schools from September 2002 to August 2008
- Primary school teacher teaching Y4/5 from September 2008 to August 2009
- Special needs teacher since September 2009
- 4 years as an Assistant Headteacher
- 2 years as a Deputy Headteacher
Education
PGCE in Secondary English -
The University of Sheffield
Sheffield 2001.09 - 2002.07
BA Hons in English and Drama -
The University of Birmingham
Birmingham 1998.09 - 2001.07
A-Levels - Maths (A), Biology (A), English Literature (B), General Studies (A)
Danum School
Doncaster 1996.09 - 1998.06
GCSEs - Nine subjects studied, grades 4 x A*, 5 x A
Hungerhill School
Doncaster 1992.09 - 1996.06
Skills
- Demonstrates fairness and balance, ensuring all perspectives are acknowledged and valued
- Skilled at guiding discussions, especially when differing viewpoints arise
- Open to learning and receptive to feedback; committed to ongoing development, mentoring, and helping others grow
- Warm, approachable, and an attentive, active listener
- Remains calm under pressure and handles conflict with composure and clarity
- Able to dedicate appropriate time and focus to fulfil the responsibilities of the role
Affiliations
- Amateur drama and theatre groups, including playwriting, directing and acting
- Previously was a Scout leader for many years and ended up as Group Scout Leader for 10th Doncaster Scout Group before moving away from Doncaster
Timeline
Chair of Governors
Firbeck Academy
2025.11 - Current
Headteacher of special educational needs school
Bennerley Fields School
2022.09 - Current
Teacher
Range of schools
2002.09 - 2022.08
PGCE in Secondary English -
The University of Sheffield
2001.09 - 2002.07
BA Hons in English and Drama -
The University of Birmingham
1998.09 - 2001.07
A-Levels - Maths (A), Biology (A), English Literature (B), General Studies (A)
Danum School
1996.09 - 1998.06
GCSEs - Nine subjects studied, grades 4 x A*, 5 x A
Hungerhill School
1992.09 - 1996.06