Talented young teacher returns to the school where he trained

Bickerstaffe C E Primary School are over the moon with its newest teaching recruit, Mr Tom Chandley, for reasons more than him being a wonderfully talented young teacher.

The primary school is rooted in a long and illustrious history that has stemmed over one hundred and seventy-five years, and its community is part of the school’s DNA. Born and educated locally, Tom’s journey into teaching, followed by him successfully gaining a teaching position at Bickerstaffe School, is a story of success to celebrate with its community.

Tom was born and grew up locally to the school in Aughton, near Ormskirk. He attended Christ Church Primary school, followed by Ormskirk High School and then became a recruit in the Rifles Regiment.
After spending over four years in the army, it became clear to Tom that his passion lay in teaching, and he returned home determined to train as a teacher in the hometown that had shaped him into the person he had become.

Having heard about Bickerstaffe Primary School, Tom spent a number of weeks volunteering in the school to gain a better understanding of the role of a teacher. He was then successful in gaining a place locally at Edgehill University and began a new and exciting journey.

Tom enjoyed his time volunteering in Bickerstaffe Primary School so much that he returned for his first and final placement there, gaining experience in Key Stage One and Key Stage Two. He then went on to begin his NQT year at a school in Runcorn, however after hearing of a vacancy at Bickerstaffe School, he couldn’t wait to apply for the position so he could return to become part of the team!

Following his successful appointment Tom said: “After getting the opportunity to train as a teacher at Bickerstaffe School, I knew at some point I would return in the future. Returning to Bickerstaffe School felt like coming home. I love it there. The staff, the children and the strong community feeling. I feel incredibly lucky to be here and look forward to the next chapter!”

Tom has just started his first official term as class teacher in Year 5/6 at Bickerstaffe C E Primary School in September 2021 and he is delighted to be back.

Headteacher, Miss O’Kane said: “Having been Tom’s mentor during his first and final placement at Bickerstaffe C.E School I am delighted that he has returned. He is a wonderful member of our team and with his experience in languages, music and P.E has added so much to our team.”

Bickerstaffe CE Primary School is nestled in the picturesque village of Bickerstaffe, which is on the outskirts of Ormskirk, Rainford and Kirkby with close links to the M58 and M6. They are holding an Open Day on Monday 18 October and would love to welcome you to their school!