Ben, can you tell us a bit about your journey into teaching and what drew you to primary education?
At the end of my final year at university, I applied to complete a PGCE in physical education in a secondary setting. One thing led to another, and I ended up starting a placement at OWPS. My placement was in Year 3 in a setting I wasn’t particularly familiar with. I was quite reserved to start with, but after a few weeks, I started to see how rewarding the job could be. I now wouldn’t be able to see myself in any other setting.
What do you enjoy most about working at Orton Wistow, and what makes the school special to you?
It is hard to explain, but when you walk into a school like OWPS, you immediately get a sense of happiness. The staff at OWPS make it what it is; their positivity, teamwork and genuine concern for one another mean that people always have someone there to support them. Teaching can be tough, and some days are better than others, but to know that there is always someone in the school who has your back is a reassuring thing. The school puts the children first, and as a result, the extracurricular activities we offer really stand out.
As a Year Six teacher and Y5/6 Team Leader, what are you most proud of achieving with your pupils?
Trying to ensure that by the time they leave us here at OWPS, they have certain skills and attributes that will not only benefit them at secondary school but in life. At the end of their journey, it is always a proud feeling to reflect on some amazing memories that you’ve provided them throughout the last few years at school, memories that will stay with them forever.
In your role as Assessment Lead, how do you help to support standards and progress across the school?
The main shift for us this year is precision and consistency across the whole school. Each year group is becoming more accountable for the outcomes of their children. We have fortnightly meetings to discuss data, targets and what is being done to support children with gaps. These more frequent check-ins have been really positive – staff are given time to discuss barriers, and we work as a team to try to support and overcome anything that may hinder outcomes for that year group.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
I think that the most rewarding part of the job is knowing that when a child is in school for however long that may be, they are happy and feel safe. If we can make school and the classroom a place where they feel like this, then I don’t think there is a better reward.
Is there an aspect of your teaching role that has given you particular pride or joy?
I am heavily involved in organising and supporting the teams that represent the school in sporting fixtures and events, and over the last three or four years, we have really stood out in girls’ football. Seeing girls become interested and then continue this interest with passion has been something I will always remember. Often, parents have thanked or expressed their joy that their daughter has found something they love and enjoy.
Do you have any advice for new teachers, or for anyone considering a career in education?
Try to build as many connections as you can, not only with the children but also with the staff. Remember to be kind to yourself – everyone has challenging days or tricky classrooms at times. Make sure you have something outside of teaching that you can do, doesn’t matter what it is, but have something, so that you give yourself a break each week.
Orton Wistow recently joined Meridian Trust (in November 2025) – how does it feel to be part of the Trust community so far?
Coming from a smaller trust of three schools, joining Meridian Trust feels exciting, opening up opportunities to network within a much broader community. I’m really looking forward to collaborating with my Meridian colleagues to improve the education offer for all of the children in our school. Being part of a larger trust like Meridian means we’ll have access to lots of experienced people we can turn to for help and advice.
