Meet the Teacher Q & A
What is your name? Mrs Helliwell
What class do you teach? I teach in the Acorns unit so Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2. I share my teaching role with Mrs Crampsey. Mrs Docherty, an experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistant, also helps us in Acorns and she has worked at the school for over 20 years. Mrs Baker-Bell is also part of our team, supporting learning across the unit.
How long have you worked at Castle Carrock? I have worked at Castle Carrock School for over 10 years, first as a teaching assistant and then I became a teacher working across KS1 and Early Years.
What would the children be surprised to find out about you? Before I was a teacher, I was a crime reporter on a newspaper.
What makes a ‘good’ day at Castle Carrock? When there’s cake in the staff room! Also, when the children choose a Julia Donaldson story for me to read to them – I love Julia Donaldson books!
What is the best thing about being a teacher? When a child has a ‘light bulb moment’ and realise they can do something they didn’t think they could or they make a connection in their learning that surprises and delights them.
What wisdom would you pass on to the children in your class? Stay curious and never give up!
Meet the Teacher Q & A
What is your name? Mrs Crampsey
What class do you teach? I usually teach Years 1 and 2 children in the Acorns unit, but I sometimes teach the Reception and Nursery children too. On a Friday afternoon, I teach French to the Oaks class.
How long have you worked at Castle Carrock? I started to teach at Castle Carrock School in March 2025.
What would the children be surprised to find out about you? Before I was a teacher, I was a scientist and worked in a laboratory.
What makes a ‘good’ day at Castle Carrock? When the children tell me that they have enjoyed a lesson and that they love coming to school to learn.
What is the best thing about being a teacher? I enjoy learning new things with the children. Even when you are older (just a little bit!) than the pupils, there are still lots of amazing new skills and facts to learn.
What wisdom would you pass on to the children in your class? “Have a go!” I always challenge children to try – because they will always have the fabulous, caring teaching staff at Castle Carrock to help them to succeed.
Things to remember:
- PE days Wednesday and Thursdays. Named PE kits to be kept in school. Kits will be sent home for washing during school holidays.
- Water bottles and a healthy snack for break time: milk and fruit are provided during the day.
- Listening to your child read and helping them practice their letter sounds at home will really help them in their learning journey. A little every day goes a long, long way.
Useful Websites and APPs
1-minute maths | Maths App | White Rose Maths
PhonicsPlay – selection of free games covering Phonics Phases 1-5
www.topmarks.com – Maths and English games and activities suitable for 3-5 year olds.
Class Documents
