An extraordinary journey from pupil to teacher

From pupil to qualified teacher, Miss Price’s journey is a powerful example of dedication, growth and the impact of a supportive school community. Her story highlights how passion, perseverance and opportunity can come together to shape a fulfilling career in education. Miss Price has a special, and pretty unique story to tell and ELAN’s Bournville Primary School holds a very special place in her heart! 

From early inspiration to first steps 

Miss Price’s professional journey into education began during her college years, where she studied for a Level 3 Childcare qualification. Through placements in Reception and Key Stage 1 (KS1), she quickly discovered a passion for supporting children, particularly those with special educational needs.  

Her very first school role was voluntary, completed as part of her college placements and she extended this beyond her course. These early experiences laid a strong foundation, allowing her to explore her interests and develop practical skills in a real classroom environment. 

A school that felt like home 

Bournville Primary School has always held a special place in Miss Price’s heart. Having been a pupil at the infant school, junior school and a founder member of primary school there from the age of 4, all the way through to 11 years old, she remembers being “the child who loved being at school and pretending to be the teacher.” 

This personal connection, combined with the strong sense of community and the dedication she witnessed from staff, inspired her to return.   

“Whilst working in voluntary roles, I noticed how the staff members always went above and beyond for all the children and the sense of community that is present in BPS. My positive experience of being a pupil in BPS made me want to come back time and time again. I also remember the impact my teachers had on me as a child, and I wanted to be able to give that feeling to others.” 

Growing through opportunity 

Miss Price’s career progression reflects her determination and making the most of the opportunities available within ELAN.  

Starting as a volunteer, she moved into a dual role as a Supervisory Midday Support Assistant (SMSA) or Lunchtime Supervisor and Learning Support Assistant (LSA). She then spent seven years as an LSA before progressing to a Teaching Assistant (TA) role in Early Years. 

Today, she is a qualified teacher, who took on her own class at Bournville Primary School from September—a milestone that marks the culmination of years of hard work. 

Along the way, Miss Price has taken on new responsibilities and training opportunities, including developing expertise in “Bucket Time” to support children’s attention skills and strengthening her practice in nurture-based approaches. 

Defining moments and strong support 

“The defining moment in my career so far is having had the opportunity to train to teach across two ELAN schools. I had the pleasure of getting to know classes of children and staff members at both Bournville Primary School and Mendip Green. Both classes have had the biggest impact on me which I will hold dear throughout my teaching career.”   

Central to her success has been the encouragement of those around her. She credits both her personal and professional support networks for helping her take each step forward with confidence: 

“Especially my fellow colleagues who are some of my best friends: Mrs Wyatt and Miss H-M.  

Mrs Wyatt – you have been on this journey with me from day one.  Your words of encouragement and positivity have meant more to be than you know.  

Miss H-M – there is no one else I would want to be training to teach in partnership with at all. I can’t wait to see your teaching journey too.”   

Learning while working 

Miss Price’s commitment to professional development is evident in her academic achievements. In 2021, with the support of Bournville Primary School, she adjusted her working hours to pursue a Bachelor’s degree. 

Balancing full-time work with university study over three years was no small feat, but with strong backing from school leadership and colleagues, she successfully achieved her degree—opening the door to her teacher training. 

“I would not be where I am currently without the support of my ELAN colleagues.  They have supported and provided me with the opportunity to train to teach whilst still working. It is an opportunity that I am forever grateful and one that I never take for granted.” 

A journey of pride and purpose 

Reflecting on her journey, Miss Price feels immense pride in everything she has achieved. Managing the demands of work, study and training together has strengthened her resilience and shaped her teaching style. 

Her motivation comes from the impact she has on children—seeing their confidence grow, their learning develop, and their wellbeing improve.

“Personally, I have always remembered the feeling of the class teacher I had, who was always my champion, and now it is that feeling what motivates me as I teach.”   

A community that builds careers 

For Miss Price, Bournville Primary School is more than a workplace—it is a community. She describes it as a place where staff are united, supported and valued. 

“When you work at Bournville Primary School, you become a part of something that is bigger, a unit, a community, a family. A colleague once said when you work at BPS it is like you are a stick of rock; you can look inside and see that BPS runs all the way through”.   

Looking back—and ahead 

If she could speak to her younger self, Miss Price would offer reassurance: 

“There is a reason that every time you are thinking about what you want to do in your career you come back to teaching. The scariest part was starting out but you will soon settle, just have a little bit confidence that you know that you can do it!”   

To those considering a career in education, her advice is clear: "gain as much experience as possible in your chosen setting; explore different pathways that help you get into teaching and be confident enough to ask for opportunities."

"At BPS,” she says, “everyone is in your corner—encouraging and supporting you every step of the way.” 

A truly inspiring journey 

MIss Price’s story is one of passion, perseverance and the power of a supportive environment. From pupil to teacher, her journey embodies what’s possible within ELAN—where talent is nurtured, ambition is encouraged and careers are built to last. 

Miss Price, for all that you have achieved so far, and all that you are about to achieve in the new academic year, we congratulate you. On behalf of the hundreds of children who have already benefitted from your warmth and experience—and the thousands more your teaching will impact—we thank you. Thank you for your bravery in allowing us to share your extraordinary journey. We cannot wait to see what happens next! 

Afterword from Adam Matthews. Former ELAN Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and former Bournville Headteacher

"Miss Price's journey is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when talent, determination and opportunity come together. Miss Price Joined Bournville Junior School in September 2005, the same day that I joined as headteacher, she stood out as a sparky, resilient, motivated and intelligent individual who enjoyed getting involved with all aspects of school life. She achieved well and it was always a pleasure to see her and catch up when she collected her younger brother from school after she had left us. We were all delighted when we learned she had earned a place at university.

When Miss Price rejoined Bournville as a teaching assistant it was clear she had a talent for working with young people. At ELAN, we are committed to creating clear career pathways and providing the support, development and encouragement our colleagues need to thrive. Miss Price has embraced every opportunity, continually growing her skills and expertise, and her success reflects both her dedication and the culture of learning and development we strive to foster across our trust."