After two degrees in Education and a long career as a secondary school teacher, I needed to maintain some contact with education, schools and most of all, young people. When I retired from Marden High School in 2011, where I taught English and Drama and been a Year Head and Assistant Head, I was invited to become a consultant for the teaching of English in Hartlepool for two or three days a week, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Whilst serving a customer in a local Barnardo's shop, I was invited to help with Literacy at Woodlawn and leapt at the chance!

 

I volunteered with four primary classes and two secondary groups in Woodlawn last year and so far this term, I have helped out in classes ranging from Year 1 to sixth form one full day a week. Spending a day in Woodlawn really cheers me up - the children and young people are a delight and the school is a very positive place to be.

 

As well as volunteering in a Barnardo's shop, I supported two 'Barnardo's families’ whose single parents did not read, write or speak in English. I continued to be a close friend to the mother and four children in one family for six years, I am still in contact although they have moved away. I am very proud of the family and the progress they have made.

 

I remain passionate about young people and their education, and feel that 'once a teacher, always a teacher'! I hope as a co-opted school governor, to continue to have a positive influence on young people, encouraging and enabling them to participate fully in the learning experiences provided by Woodlawn. I also hope to share the knowledge and skills I have gained over the years, with all of the adults I meet in lessons, governor's meetings and around school.