St Mary's Catholic Primary School

"Nurturing Our God-Given Talents"

Staff Testimonials

Motivated by my childhood education at St Mary’s, and a desire to share my knowledge and experiences, I chose to pursue a career in teaching, after completing my English Literature and History Degree, to inspire the next generation of pupils. 

I am proud to say I work at St Mary’s. It is a school at the heart of our local community, providing pupils with an exciting curriculum and a variety of extra-curricular activities within a safe and caring environment. I feel valued, respected and listened to here, and have been provided a plethora of opportunities to make a real and lasting difference to our children whilst developing my own professional career. I have particularly enjoyed the SELCAT Inset Days, hearing from inspirational speakers and collaborating with like-minded individuals in other schools within the Trust. I take away a lot from these sessions and bring back excellent ideas and good practice that I can use in my own classroom and look forward to more of these joint expediencies.

I aspire to gain experience in other year groups in the future to impart my love of reading and have a lasting impact on the children I teach.”

Mrs Thaxter, Year 1 Class Teacher, English Lead, Interim KS1 Lead

 

This school has given my family so much over the years that I wanted to join the staff body to give something back. St Mary’s has a special community feel, which is echoed by the values and mission of SELCAT, where pupils are embraced by a warmth and support that is not matched in other schools. They are encouraged to not only reach their academic potential here, but also become kind, responsible and active citizens of the world.

Within my role, no two days are the same, but I always feel like I am making a positive contribution and difference. I am proud to be part of an exceptional and transformational leadership team where I am encouraged to aim high and achieve my own potential.

I want to ensure that St Mary’s continues to shine brightest in our local community, and I know we will achieve this by creating an outstanding learning environment to match the outstanding learning already taking place. In my role, this means having robust and transparent financial procedures in place and working with stakeholders to future proof our school with strategic planning. Being a part of SELCAT is supporting this. The Trust central team has a pool of knowledge and resource, providing excellent guidance in finance, HR and premises. Having expertise like this to call upon at a moment’s notice is rare and appreciated.”

Mrs Pampling, Business Manager

 

St Mary’s immediately appealed to me because of their strong Catholic ethos and the beliefs, values and morals we shared. St Mary’s is unique because you immediately feel part of a community as soon as you step through the doors. Walking into my classroom each morning often feels like ‘coming home’. Being a part of SELCAT enhances that family feeling as there is always someone to turn to for advice, support or guidance throughout the school year.

As a school and Trust, we are constantly evolving and continuously striving to provide the best holistic education for all our young people. What’s more, as a staff member, I am made to feel like my voice and opinions are heard and valued – we all contribute to the way the school is run for the benefit of both staff and children.

Through my Early Years role I get to embark upon the first step in a child’s education which is an absolute privilege and joy. I have ambitions of being a Headteacher in a Catholic school within the Trust and know I will be supported to achieve this. I have recently started my NPQH and am learning a vast array of new skills.”

Miss Brophy, EYFS Lead

 

St Mary’s is a truly wonderful place.  Staff set high expectations of pupils and this allows children to not only excel academically, but to become kind and compassionate members of our community. This is not just a school this is a family.  Children live out our school values in every way. 

Year 2 Teacher