Our Teaching Stars
Miss Spowage
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hi my name is Miss Spowage and I am a teacher in Year 1.
What did you study at University?
I studied BA Hons Education Studies and gained First-Class Honours. I also studied at Bishop Grosseteste University where I gained PGCE with QTS
What were your favourite subjects at school?
My favourite subjects in school were science and Art. I enjoyed experimenting with different objects and chemicals and I also liked creating different designs in Art.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
My first ever job was being a receptionist which I really enjoyed. I also worked as a letting agent for a letting company which was really interesting. I then had a job as a medical tester and volunteered at a school which is where my love for teaching began.
What do you like to do out of school?
I love spending time with my family and we meet most weekends. I also try and keep very active by going on walks, biking and paddle boarding. I try and read as much as I can in my spare time.
What's your favourite meal?
My favourite meal is chicken chow mein and sweet and sour chicken.
Is there anything you really don't like?
I don't like rainy days.
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Enthusiastic
Mr Gough
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
I teach in year 2.
What did you study at University?
History
What were your favourite subjects at school?
History & Maths
What did you do before you were a teacher?
I ran a tourism business in Bosnia.
What do you like to do out of school?
Hiking and DIY
What's your favourite meal?
Sausage, egg and chips
Is there anything you really don't like?
Poor manners
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Helpful
Miss Howsam
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello! I am Miss Howsam. I am teaching in Year 3.
What did you study at University?
I studied Education Studies and Special Educational Needs and Inclusion (BA Hons) at Bishop Grosseteste University. I then went on to complete a School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) to achieve my QTS.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
I loved English and Art.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
Before I became a teacher, I worked as a waitress during sixth form and university.
What do you like to do out of school?
I really enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also love horse riding and baking!
What's your favourite meal?
My favourite meal would have to be pizza!
Is there anything you really don't like?
I don't like things being untidy.
Can you describe yourself in one word?
Caring.
Mrs Pollard
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello, I’m Mrs Pollard. I am a Year 4 class teacher at Eye. I am the Pupil Premium Champion and RE lead. I have also recently undertaken some training to become an Evidence Advocate which means I can now support other teachers through successful implementation of new initiatives in school.
What did you study at University?
I have a BA Honours degree in Education from Anglia Ruskin University, and have trained as a Teacher through the Cambridge Partnership Training Programme.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
When I was at school, I enjoyed a variety of subjects but my favourite subjects were PE, English and Geography. I really enjoyed going out on fieldtrips and exploring.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
Before I became a teacher, I worked at Eye as a Teaching Assistant for 6 years.
What do you like to do out of school?
Outside of school I like to spend time with family and friends, and I also enjoy watching my husband play for his ice hockey team at the weekends. I enjoy reading, and can often be found curled up on the sofa with a blanket, enjoying a good book. I love travelling too and going on holiday.
What's your favourite meal?
I love anything Italian and my favourite is home-made Spaghetti Bolognaise or a really cheesy pizza!
Is there anything you really don't like?
Spiders - they have always freaked me out!
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Organised
Mr Dickinson
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello! I am Mr Dickinson, and this is my second full year at Eye primary. I teach in year 6.
What did you study at University?
I studied English and Primary Education at Bishop Grosseteste Teacher Training College in Lincoln, and at Hull University. I loved living away from home for the first time - and I had a great time and made lots of friends whilst studying for my degree!
What were your favourite subjects at school?
My favourite subjects at school were PE, History and English. I also played football and rugby for my school - but I was never very good!
What did you do before you were a teacher?
I used to work in a record shop on Saturdays, and when I went away to College I worked part-time in Boots in Lincoln!
What do you like to do out of school?
I like reading, listening to music and watching films, and I also enjoy walking and cycling - and going to football matches. I support Manchester United, but I usually go to see Peterborough United or Lincoln City! I love food, and like to cook for my family - but unfortunately, my experiments often turn out to be inedible!
What's your favourite meal?
I love Indian food - especially curries (And especially if I haven’t cooked them myself!)
Is there anything you really don't like?
Snakes.
Can you describe yourself in one word?
Old!
Miss Canham
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello, I’m Miss Canham and I am teaching in Year 4. I also lead mathematics across school.
What did you study at University?
I have a degree in Primary Education with QTS (Ba Hons), which I studied at Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
When I was at school, I enjoyed a variety of subjects but my favourite subjects were English and History as I really loved writing and enjoyed finding out about the past.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
Before I became a teacher, I worked as a shop assistant during sixth form and university.
What do you like to do out of school?
Outside of school I like to spend time with family and friends. This includes going out for dinner, spending time together on days out and going shopping! I also love to take my dog out for long walks round country parks.
What's your favourite meal?
This is a very hard question, as there is so much choice, but if I had to choose it would probably be something Mexican- either tacos or burritos.
Is there anything you really don't like?
Spiders! I don’t think I will ever be a lover of spiders.
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Positive!
Miss Marriott
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hi, I am Miss Marriott, and I will be teaching in Year 3 from September 2024.
What did you study at University?
At University, I studied a BSc in Criminology and have a MSc in Criminal Investigation.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
PE was always my favourite subject at school, but I also really enjoyed history.
What do you like to do out of school?
Outside of school I like to stay active and social, if I'm not wakeboarding, I am walking my two dogs somewhere in the countryside or catching up with friends.
What is your favourite food?
I absolutely love food! You can't beat a big roast dinner and (unpopular opinion) but I love a tuna pizza...
What are your dislikes?
I dislike snow. I can deal with the rain, but snow is a big no! I am looking forward to joining the Eye family and getting to know everyone!
Mrs Butler (On Maternity Leave)
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello, I’m Mrs Butler and I teach in EYFS. I am also EYFS & KS1 phase leader as well the leader of phonics within school.
What did you study at University?
I have a degree in Psychology (BSc Hons) which I studied at the University of East Anglia in Norwich. I then went on to complete my PGCE at the University of Bedfordshire.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
At school, I liked most subjects as they all involved a different and new challenge but my favourite subjects were: Maths, PE and History.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
Before I worked as a teacher, I worked in a high street jewellery store while studying at sixth form. I then went on to work as a teaching assistant while at university.
What do you like to do out of school?
My time out of school is spent mostly with my family and friends. I enjoy going out for dinner and trying lots of different cuisines. I have a cockapoo dog called Ted who I love to walk and explore new places with. I also like to travel to different countries whenever I get the opportunity to do so and explore new cultures.
What's your favourite meal?
A takeaway curry for sure, a chicken korma is my favourite.
Is there anything you really don't like?
Bananas, I don’t even like the smell!
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Bubbly
Miss Rimes
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello! I am Miss Rimes and I am a class teacher in Year 2. I am also the History & Geography subject leader.
What did you study at University?
I studied Performing Arts at Buckinghamshire New University for my Undergraduate Degree then did my Primary PGCE with QTS at Bishop Grosseteste University.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
I loved Drama, English and Media Studies
What did you do before you were a teacher?
I had a couple of jobs in retail then worked as a waitress for three years at a pizza restaurant. I was actually still working as a waitress whilst studying for my PGCE!
What do you like to do out of school?
I really enjoy spending time with my family and friends, especially taking my little boy out! I do love binge-watching TV Shows on Netflix and going out for food and drinks.
What's your favourite meal?
This is a tough one! Probably any kind of pasta really (the spicier the better).
Is there anything you really don't like?
Food-wise? Fish. Phobias? Sharks and open water.
Can you describe yourself in one word?
Considerate.
Mrs Jackson
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello! I'm Mrs Jackson. I am the English Lead in school and I teach in Giraffes class (Year 5).
What did you study at University?
I studied Primary Education with QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) at Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln. Whilst at Eye Primary, I have gained my NPQLL qualification (National Professional Qualification in Leading Literacy) with Ambition.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
I loved English and Art.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
My first job was as a waitress at a local pub near my home. My second job was at Vivacity where I worked as a receptionist and customer advisor at the Regional Fitness and Swimming Centre. I worked part-time during my A-Levels there and as and when I could whilst studying at university.
What do you like to do out of school?
I love to spend time with my family and friends; cooking; eating out; going on relaxing walks; having a bit of retail therapy; spending time with my dog (Ozzy) and relaxing at home. I've popped a photo of Ozzy below - I could chat about him all day long!
What's your favourite meal?
It's hard to pick just one! My dad's homemade curry, a Thai massaman curry or Thai red curry! Yum!
Is there anything you really don't like?
Seafood and the dark!
Can you describe yourself in one word?
Caring.
Mrs Oliver
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
My name is Miss Oliver and I teach in Y2 on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. I am also Educational Visits Coordinator, which means I oversee the planning of school trips.
What did you study at University?
BA(Hons) in Education with QTS.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
My favourite subjects were English and Art.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
I did a few temporary jobs in my summer holidays from university. I also took some time out to go travelling around Asia, Australia and the USA.
What do you like to do out of school?
Outside of school I like to spend time with my family, get outdoors for walks, bake and relax in front of the TV or with a good book.
What's your favourite meal?
Anything from the chinese takeaway!!
Is there anything you really don't like?
Spiders.
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Caring.
Mrs Sargeant
Can you introduce yourself and explain what you do at our school?
I am Miss Sargeant and I teach Year 1. I look after Art in school. We cover lots of aspects of art, including painting, drawing, sculpture and printing.
What did you study at university?
I studied English Literature as my main subject in my degree, but I also studied Theology, Ethics, and American Studies as extra subjects. I did a PGCE after a few years of working.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
English, History and Sociology were my favourite subjects at school.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
Before I was a teacher, I had a few jobs. I worked at a bank, I was a typist, and I was an accounts clerk.
What do you like to do out of school?
Out of school I like to spend time with my family. Usually going to the park with my little girl or taking her out to places, we enjoy lots of walks in the countryside. I also like looking after our family pets, which include several harvest mice, a very lively sheep dog called Tess and a black and white cat called Toby. Sitting down with a good book is also one of my hobbies and I often visit the library.
What's your favourite meal?
I love to have a really good roast dinner to eat, with a fruit crumble and custard for pudding.
Is there anything you really don't like?
I don't like being cold.
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Caring.
Miss Scane
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello! My name is Miss Scane and I teach in year 6. I am also the Key Stage 2 Phase Leader. I also continue to help lead PSHE and RSE at our school.
What did you study at University?
I went to the University of Northampton and studied Creative Writing. I basically got to write stories and poems for three whole years! I had a fantastic time. I then started a course in Peterborough called Teach East that helped me to train to be a teacher and gain my QTS (Qualified Teach Status).
What were your favourite subjects at school?
My favourite subjects at school were English and History. I've always loved writing and developed a particular love of the Tudors when studying them in Year 5!
What did you do before you were a teacher?
I worked in a children's clothing store called Pumpkin Patch when I was 16 until I was 18. When Pumpkin Patch closed down, I went to work for WHSmith. I worked there for four years and even became Duty Manager. I much prefer teaching though!
What do you like to do outside of school?
I have recently re-discovered my love of reading in 2022 and I read every chance I get now. I also enjoy watching TV shows and movies on Netflix or Amazon Prime whilst I'm doing my work for school. Chasing my little boy Carson around usually keeps me very busy too!
What's your favourite meal?
I am obsessed with eating Chilli Con Carne and Spaghetti Bolognese. I can eat them both over and over again for days at a time. I can never turn down cheesy garlic bread either!
Is there anything you really don't like?
Daddy Long Legs! They are my worst fear! Also, when you get water in your shoes and your socks go all squelchy. I am a very unhappy Miss Scane when that happens.
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Organised!!!
Mrs Bright
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
My name is Mrs Bright and I am one of the Assistant Headteachers at our school. I lead on SIAMS and work on improving our church school. I am lucky to teach music in our school.
What did you study at University?
I studied for a BA(Hons) in Primary Education at Roehampton University in London.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
I think my favourite subject often depended on who my favourite teacher was, but my favourite subjects at school were History, Music and English.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
I went to university to train to be a teacher straight after finishing my A-levels so teaching is all I have ever done. I did work in W H Smith on a Saturday when I was still at school.
What do you like to do out of school?
Outside of school I like to spend time with my husband, family and friends. My two children keep us busy and we like doing lots of fun activities together such as playing in the park and going for walks. Many of you will know that I like singing and I am in a number of choirs. I also like reading which helps me to relax!
What's your favourite meal?
I love Mexican food such as fajitas and nachos!
Is there anything you really don't like?
I don't like snakes.
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Positive
Mrs Thorpe
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello
My name is Mrs Thorpe and I am an Assistant Head Teacher in the school with a focus on Early Years and Year One . I am also the school's Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator. I work Mondays to Thursdays.
I am a qualified Forest School Leader and love being outdoors in our Forest school areas.
What did you study at University?
I studied for a BA(Hons) in Primary Education at Nottingham Trent University.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
My favourite subjects at school were History and Maths.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
I always wanted to be a teacher.
After finishing my A-levels, I went straight to university to train to be a teacher.
I did work in a few different shops at the evenings and weekends when I was at university.
What do you like to do out of school?
Outside of school I like to spend time with my family and friends. I love being outdoors. One of my favourite things to do is to go on a walk in the Peak or Lake District and walk up the high hills. I also like reading which helps me to relax in the evenings.
What's your favourite meal?
I love most types of food! But if I had to choose, it would be a roast dinner with lots of Yorkshire puddings and gravy!
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Patient
Mrs Stewart
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hi! I’m Mrs Stewart and I am an EYFS teacher. I started working at Eye C of E Primary School in September 2016 and I am thoroughly enjoying my experience!
What did you study at University?
I studied a BA Childhood and Youth Studies degree at The Open University. I completed this degree part time over the course of six years, which meant that during the day I still had time to do what I love most- teaching children! I then went on to train to become a teacher and completed my PGCE at Bishop Grosseteste University!
What were your favourite subjects at school?
My favourite subjects in school were Maths and P.E-Netball in particular! I used to be involved in many sports clubs at school and played for the schools Netball team. Once I had left school, I then joined a local Netball team to continue my love of the sport!
What did you do before you were a teacher?
Before I became a teacher, I worked full time at Holme C of E Primary School as a Teaching Assistant. I also ran an after school care club four evenings a week and often volunteered at a local SEN youth club.
What do you like to do out of school?
I love spending time with my family and friends outside of school! In particular, I spend a lot of time in either Cambridge or London with my husband, drinking coffee or eating out at restaurants! I also love travelling and I try to visit other places as often as possible. This year I have spent time in Belgium, France, Portugal, Singapore and Bali and I am hoping to get away again before the end of 2016!
What's your favourite meal?
I love noodles, but to be honest, I love most food!
Is there anything you really don't like?
Although I love travelling, I am terrified of flying!
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Organised!
Miss Stafford
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello! I'm Miss Stafford, and I make sure that all teaching and support staff have high quality training, that standards of teaching and learning remain high and consistent across school and that pupils are achieving well.
What did you study at University?
My degree is in Primary Education (BA Hons), which I studied in Leeds.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
My favourite subjects were: P.E, Science and Geography.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
Before I worked as a teacher, I traveled around America and worked as a high-ropes instructor on a summer camp in near Philadelphia .
What do you like to do out of school?
My time out of school is spent mostly running around after my two little boys, George and Arthur.
What's your favourite meal?
Homemade pizza with pepperoni and anchovies.
Is there anything you really don't like?
Birds
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
enthusiastic
Miss Wilson
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello, I'm Miss Wilson and I'm the Deputy Headteacher of Eye, teaching across school. I look after the Curriculum and check on standards across our school. I’m also the ECF Induction Tutor for our school. I work Tuesday-Thursday at Eye.
I am on secondment for 2 days a week to work on a SCITT (School- Centred Initial Teacher Training) as a Primary Curriculum Leader, which means that I get the privilege of supporting new teachers entering the profession.
What did you study at University?
My degree is English BA (Hons) from Loughborough University and I have QTS (Qualified Teacher Status). I also have my NPQH.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
It's difficult to choose! I used to enjoy PE, English and Drama at School and I had some really amazing teachers.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
Before I worked as a teacher, I enjoyed teaching swimming and trampolining in Nottingham. I used to run children's holiday activities with the YMCA and I also worked as a Lifeguard.
What do you like to do out of school?
My favourite hobbies are writing; going to the cinema; going out to the park; and swimming. My daughter keeps me very busy, too!
What's your favourite meal?
A huge roast dinner with all of the trimmings and lots of gravy!
Is there anything you really don't like?
Spiders, brussels sprouts and Maltesers!
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Innovative!
Miss Allen (On Maternity Leave)
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello, I'm Miss Allen and I am on maternity leave.
What did you study at University?
I studied at Anglia Ruskin University and have a BA (hons) in Early Childhood Professional Studies. I then did my PGCE at Lincoln Bishop Grosseteste University.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
My favourite subject at school was PE because I love netball and hockey! I love teaching maths and science too!
What did you do before you were a teacher?
Before I worked as a teacher I was a TA and I worked in a restaurant as a waitress. I also used to help on my Dad’s farm! My favourite job before I became a teacher was working in a ski resort in France.
What do you like to do out of school?
My favourite hobby outside of school is to play netball. I play for two different teams, - so I play a lot! I also like to do lots of cooking and go on long walks J
What's your favourite meal?
I love all food but my favourite would be fish and chips or pizza!
Is there anything you really don't like?
Spiders and wasps!
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Funny!
Mrs Barkwith
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello! I am Mrs Barkwith. You may know me as Miss Collins as I got married last summer holidays. I am the Squirrels teacher in EYFS, and I am also the Computing leader.
What did you study at University?
As I always knew I wanted to be a Primary School Teacher, I studied Primary Education.
What were your favourite subjects at school?
I loved English, Science and Art.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
Before I became a teacher I worked at a Pre School and also worked as a teaching assistant.
What do you like to do out of school?
I really enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love spending time with my two nephews who are 7 and 9. We always have lots of fun together.
What's your favourite meal?
My favourite meal would have to be Christmas dinner!
Is there anything you really don't like?
I do not like it when people do not tell me the truth.
Can you describe yourself in one word?
Kind
Miss Willis
Can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at our school?
Hello, I'm Miss Willis and I am the class teacher of Meerkats, soon to be Zebras.
What did you study at University?
At university I studied Early childhood which covered birth all the way up to 25. I also have a postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE).
What were your favourite subjects at school?
I loved English writing at school and anything that involved singing, acting and dancing.
What did you do before you were a teacher?
Before I worked as a teacher, I was a teaching assistant. I have also volunteered with the Samaritans and the YMCA supporting young adults.
What do you like to do out of school?
I love to travel and go to new and interesting places with my daughter. We also like going to the theatre and watching musicals.
What's your favourite meal?
I love Asian food - anything spicy.
Is there anything you really don't like?
Sci-Fi films
Can you describe yourself in one adjective?
Positive