Shane Baker
BA (Hons), PGdipE, MA, NPQH, QTLS, MSET
I am proud to serve as the Headteacher of Cann Bridge School, having taken up the post in January 2023. Working closely with our Governing Body, I provide both strategic and operational leadership for the school, ensuring that every decision we make is centred on securing the very best outcomes for our learners. It is a privilege to lead such a dedicated and talented staff team, united by our shared vision, values and unwavering commitment to putting learners first.
My career in education has been shaped by a wide range of leadership, teaching and community-based experiences. Prior to joining Cann Bridge, I was Deputy Headteacher within a federation of two special schools in Devon, where I led curriculum development, assessment and whole-school improvement across both settings. Before this, I served as Assistant Headteacher at a cross-site special school in Somerset, providing strategic leadership for pastoral care and helping to create nurturing environments in which learners could thrive.
I have also held roles as Sixth Form and Careers Leader within specialist education, championing Preparation for Adulthood and supporting young people to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for successful futures. Earlier in my career, I worked as a class teacher in an outstanding special school in Yorkshire, where I led careers education and Preparation for Adulthood initiatives across the school.
My experience extends beyond special schools into Further Education, where I worked as a lecturer, tutor and mentor within a large college, delivering Foundation Learning, vocational and academic programmes. I have also worked as a youth and community worker and participation worker, establishing and leading a community club for children and young people with learning difficulties and disabilities. This work strengthened my belief in the importance of inclusion, advocacy and ensuring that every young person has a voice and the opportunity to influence the services that affect their lives.
At Cann Bridge, my passion lies in preparing learners for life beyond school. I am committed to leading a school that places community, relationships and aspiration at its heart. My particular interests include the Preparation for Adulthood agenda, careers education, employability, vocational learning, work-related learning and meaningful experiential opportunities that help learners develop confidence, independence and a sense of purpose. I firmly believe that preparation for adulthood begins from the moment a child joins our school, and I am dedicated to ensuring that learners are supported to build the skills, knowledge and personal qualities they need throughout their journey from Early Years through to Post-16 education.
I am incredibly proud of what we achieve together at Cann Bridge School. Every day, I see learners demonstrating resilience, determination, creativity and kindness, supported by a team who are committed to being aspirational, learner-focused, collaborative and progressive. It is an honour to lead this remarkable school community and to work alongside families, staff, governors and partners as we continue to create opportunities, remove barriers and ensure that every learner is able to thrive and achieve their full potential.
Roles, responsibilities and strategic oversight of:
- School culture
- Teaching & Learning
- Curriculum and assessment
- Behaviour
- Additional and special educational needs
- Professional development
- Organisational workforce and financial management
- School improvement
- Working in partnership
- Governance and accountability
- Admissions
- Strategic Lead for Communications
- Premises
- Health and Safety
- Pupil Premium Lead
- Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
