My son and I joined Ilam school in 2019 and I teach Squirrel Class (years 1, 2 and 3). As well as teaching I am also responsible for English, Numeracy and RE. As of September 2023, I also became Headteacher.
As Headteacher, I am responsible for overseeing the progress and well-being of pupils, HR management, financial control and future development of the school.
I come from a legal practice background having qualified as a Solicitor in 2009. I trained and qualified with a reputable legal firm in Nottingham and subsequently practised at the General Medical Council in Manchester as part of the Fitness to Practice Directorate. I returned to this area in 2013 following my mother’s unfortunate life changing battle with meningitis and I have to say, it felt good to be home!
I made the huge decision in 2018 to finally follow my heart and retrain as a teacher, a decision that has fulfilled me completely! I absolutely love being in the classroom and thrive on seeing children happy, safe and exploring inspiring opportunities to learn! I feel very lucky indeed to work in such a happy and supportive school in beautiful and stunning surroundings.
Miss Emily Johnson – Headteacher, Squirrels Class Teacher and Designated Safeguarding Lead
I am the class teacher for Nursery, Reception and Year 1 children (known as the Hedgehogs). I work part time along with Mrs Greenwood. I have worked at Ilam School since September 2015 and I absolutely adore my job. Ilam is the most idyllic setting to have the pleasure of working in, as well as working alongside fantastic staff and having the pleasure of teaching such wonderful children! Early Years is my passion, as I love to watch the children develop and grow into such beautiful, kind and caring young people.
My main role aside from teaching Hedgehogs class is SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator). I also lead Design and Technology and Music.
Outside of school I love to spend time with my partner, walking the dogs and socialising with friends. I am a keen reader and love to bake.
Ilam school is the most beautiful place to work and I feel privileged to work here!
Miss Emily Goldstraw – Teacher, Nursery/Reception/Year 1 Teacher, SENCo and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
I first came to Ilam in 2017 as a trainee teacher on placement from Derby University and have never really left! I am now class teacher for Kingfishers (Y4, 5, and 6), leading 4 subjects and covering SENCO through Miss Goldstraw’s maternity leave. I am so pleased that I get to stay in such a welcoming and friendly environment where everyone is one big school family, especially considering the beautiful scenery in which we are set.
Reading is my passion, I am never too far from a cup of tea or a good book and aim to read as much an as often as possible! Outside of school, I am a sports coach at a Martial Arts Academy. I have been training for 18 years, mainly in Taekwondo, Judo/MMA, PYT and Boxing, and am a qualified instructor and black belt. Teaching became my passion through martial arts as I loved taking in children with a range of additional needs and seeing the difference, I can make in their lives by providing a structured and educational outlet. Every child’s learning should begin with confidence and a can-do attitude to foster a growth mindset.
Miss Kira Rouse – Kingfisher Class Teacher, SENCO, PE, Science, Computing and History Lead
Hello! I’m Kate and I have worked at Ilam School since January 2012. I work part time teaching Hedgehog class (Nursery, Reception and Year 1) alongside Miss Goldstraw.
I am a naturally creative person and I use this creativity to make learning engaging, interesting and fulfilling for the children.
Apart from being a class teacher, I am also the subject coordinator for Geography, Art, D&T and PSHE. I have a degree in Geography from Durham University, and I have a keen interest in environmental studies.
Mrs Kate Greenwood – Hedgehogs Class Teacher
I have worked at the school for many years. My current role is Office manager. I also teach swimming lessons.
I deal with the school budget and problem solving which I enjoy. I love interacting with the children, and being part of their everyday learning. I particularly like being part of the Ilam school community and hope parents feel that I am always there to be of help.
Mrs Ann Goldstraw – Office Manager; Governor
I started at Ilam as a volunteer. I was studying a Child Development course at college and needed some work experience. I thought Ilam was the loveliest place I could think of to do that and I have been here ever since. I cover the teachers’ planning time which is great because I get the opportunity to work with all the children. I support the children in their learning on the computers, and in particular learning coding and how to write simple programs. I am impressed by how quickly the children learn and how much they teach me!
Miss Carol Compton – Teaching Assistant
Mrs Fiona Goodyear – Teaching Assistant
I have worked in education for over 20 years, mainly in primary schools- as both a teacher and teaching assistant, so i bring lots of experience to the job!
I love teaching and supporting children so they gain confidence in themselves and achieve their best. It’s wonderful to be working in the caring, nurturing environment of Ilam school.
When not at work, you will generally find me outdoors walking, cycling or in my garden. I love to grow fruit and vegetables so I am also in my kitchen a lot making cakes, jams and chutneys.
At weekends and in the holidays I like to spend time with my family- my husband, my children and my three lovely granddaughters.
I am a Lunch Time Supervisor and Foundation Governor.
Having lived in the community of Ilam all of my life, I am very passionate about Ilam School and am delighted that my children have had the benefit of being educated here as I was. All children are nurtured within the special family atmosphere of the school and benefit from the beautiful surroundings.
Mrs Barbara Temperton – Lunch Time Supervisor; Governor
I’m Jenny & I’ve been helping out at Ilam for around 8 years. When my son started in reception, I was asked if I could help. I’ve enjoyed all sorts of roles, from helping out on trips, at the swimming pool & dinner time duties. Even though my son has gone onto his next stage of education. I wanted to continue to support the school. It’s a pleasure to see the children grow throughout their time at Ilam.
Mrs Jenny Cushing – Lunch Time Supervisor
I am Lisa McNamara, or Miss Lisa to the children. I am married to David and a mother to two grown up children; Hannah 22, and Ryan 20. I have cooked at Ilam School for the last 7 years, previously having my own business running a 120 seater pub restaurant and cafe. After selling the businesses I was looking for something more part time; little did I know that accepting the role of Cook at Ilam School would change my life for the better.
I enjoy cooking healthy but exciting food for the children. From time to time I plan themed days to make food fun such as Chinese New Year and our Cowboy Cookout. Coming to work is a pleasure and each day the children make me laugh.
Mrs Lisa McNamara – “Miss Lisa” – School Cook