Dr Helen Coles-Hennessy - Associate Principal

Joining Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College as Associate Principal in late August 2024, Dr. Coles Hennesey is excited to lead and engage with the school’s enthusiastic students and dedicated staff. With a highly successful background in STEM, she is committed to fostering an empowering environment where every student is inspired to do their best and make meaningful and ambitious choices about their future. 

After earning her Master's Degree in Engineering from the University of Durham, she specialised in Physics, completing her PGCE in Secondary Science at the University of Birmingham. Since 2004, Dr. Hennesey has taught in various schools across the country, taking on roles such as Head of House, Second in Science, Head of Science, Head of Sixth Form, and Assistant Principal (Curriculum and Pupil Premium Lead). 

In 2018, she joined the Lionheart Educational Trust as Assistant Principal (Holistic Development) at Judgemeadow Community College in Evington and later served as Vice Principal, where she focused on Behaviour, Attendance, and Safeguarding. Her extensive experience encompasses both curriculum and pastoral responsibilities, reflecting her commitment to student well-being and academic success. 

Dr. Hennesey also holds a Master's Degree in Education from the University of Birmingham, where her dissertation examined the experiences of female students in the science classroom. In 2022, she completed her Doctorate in Educational Leadership, exploring system leadership in an academy school in England compared to a charter school in the USA. Her collaborative work with institutions in both countries enriched her understanding of educational practices. Additionally, she earned her MBA in Educational Leadership in 2023 and completed her National Professional Qualification in Headship (NPQH). 

Dr. Hennesey is excited to be working with the Sir Jonathan North community, fostering an environment where students can thrive and take pride in their college and its wonderfully diverse student community.