Dawn has a background in education, training, inspection and project management. She is experienced in monitoring and supporting staff and in managing large budgets. She has worked in both the UK and abroad. She has a BA degree in English and French and a Master’s degree in Educational Sciences (Psychology, Social Psychology and Sociology).

While based at the Educational Leadership Centre at the University of Manchester she worked as trainer, assessor and accredited coach. She has also trained as a mediator.