Liam Halliwell goes back to school

Liam Halliwell with Kath Thomas, Deputy Head Teacher at St John with St Michael CE Primary School

Liam Halliwell, 17, from Whitworth, left primary school some six years ago. Now he’s back, but this time as an apprentice teaching assistant.

Liam is now an apprentice teaching assistant at his former school, St John with St Michael C of E Primary School, in Shawforth.

With the support of the school and Hopwood Hall College, where he is studying as part of his apprenticeship, Liam has been working hard developing his knowledge and skills.

Commenting on his role, Liam said: “My training within the school and with Hopwood Hall College has really helped me develop my understanding of children’s individual needs and the support I’ve been given to do this has been great.”

Both the children and the staff have gained from Liam’s enthusiasm and from his love of sports - he’s been helping with rugby, table tennis and lacrosse to name a few. In fact, Liam says he’s particularly proud of all the sports trophies he has helped the school to win over the last few months. He’s also helped the school develop community links with other schools and parents.

Kath Thomas, deputy head teacher at the school, said: “We take pride in mentoring and training future employees. By developing partnerships with colleges such as Hopwood Hall College it enables the school to form links with past pupils, giving them the opportunities for workplace experiences and helping them to develop their own skills through continuous professional development opportunities.”