Fiona Field 

Fiona is a qualified teacher with over 20 years’ experience supporting children and young people across schools, alternative provision, and community settings. With specialist training in autism, ADHD, trauma awareness, safeguarding, and mental health, she brings a gentle, relational approach that helps pupils feel at ease from the moment they walk through the door.

Families and SENCOs value Fiona’s calm manner, clear communication, and genuine care for each child she supports. She is highly organised and thoughtful in how she plans learning spaces, routines, and activities, always making sure pupils feel safe, encouraged, and understood. Her focus is on helping children rebuild confidence, enjoy learning again, and take positive steps forward at a pace that feels right for them.

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Steve O’Connell 

With more than 30 years of teaching and senior leadership experience, Steve has supported children with a wide range of additional needs in both mainstream and specialist settings. He has worked as a Deputy Headteacher, SENDCo, Behaviour Lead, and Designated Safeguarding Lead, and is trained in trauma-informed practice, emotional regulation, behaviour support, and safeguarding.

Steve is approachable, patient, and incredibly reassuring for pupils who may be anxious or reluctant to attend school. He has a natural ability to connect with young people, helping them feel valued while gently guiding them back into learning. SENCOs appreciate his clear, steady communication and his commitment to working collaboratively to achieve the best outcomes for each child.

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Why We Started Beacon

We created Beacon because we wanted to build a place where young people could feel safe, valued, and genuinely understood. Over the years, we’ve both seen how much difference the right environment and the right relationships can make for a child who is struggling.

Beacon is our way of offering a fresh start - a calm, flexible, nurturing space where every pupil can take things at their own pace, rediscover their confidence, and begin to shine again.