This month, our staff spotlight is on Olivia, EYFS Lead and teacher at Halfpenny Lane J, I&N. Olivia oversees our youngest pupils at Halfpenny, helping them grow and develop, equipping them with the necessary tools for their educational journey.
What is a short, fun fact about yourself?
My birthday is on a leap year, so I’m only 6 and a half!
What path did you take to lead you to the role you are in now?
I completed a child development course at college and, through my school-based placements, realised that I wanted to become a teacher. I then trained as a primary teacher at Leeds Trinity University, completing my final-year placement at one of our trust schools. This is now my fourth year at Halfpenny, working in Reception. I’ve always had a particular passion for early years education, but this has strengthened during my time at Halfpenny. I also have a strong interest in early literacy and the teaching of phonics. I now work as the EYFS Lead in school and lead Early Reading.
What is your favourite/most rewarding part of your job?
My favourite and most rewarding part of the role is seeing the progress children make across the years in EYFS. Watching children grow in confidence and independence and seeing many of them leave Reception able to read and write simple sentences is incredibly rewarding. I also prioritise building strong relationships with parents and sharing in their pride as they see how much their children have progressed in their first year at school.
What Professional development are you currently undertaking/ what are your career progression goals?
Our Halfpenny Lane continuous professional development offer is incredibly supportive, providing me with opportunities to progress in my role and stay up to date with best practice.
I am currently in my first year as EYFS lead and Early Reading lead. I attend regular training sessions with AGTT around EYFS leadership and early reading- Early Years Leadership Programme and Reading Ambition for All. I recently completed coaching training, and I’m now coaching 2 ECTs. I am currently taking part in mentor training to become a mentor for a university student.
Next year, I would like to develop my leadership skills further and complete the NQPSL.
What is a piece of advice or the best career advice you have ever been given?
I remember my college teacher told me to ‘never stop learning’ because education is always evolving. From this, I will always be open to new challenges and opportunities, as it supports me in growing in my role.
A huge thank you to Olivia for sharing a little bit about her role and what her day-to-day is like as an EYFS Lead at Halfpenny Lane! Look out for our next Staff spotlight in April.