Former Pupils Return to Suffolk Primary School as Trainee Teachers

Two former pupils of Pakefield Primary School, near Lowestoft, have returned to the school as trainee teachers. Fran Harding, 44, and 23-year-old Ellie McComb both attended Pakefield Primary and later worked as teaching assistants there while studying for a teaching degree.

Harding said she felt "safe and happy" as a pupil at the school in the late 1980s and early 1990s and knew she wanted to work with young children. McComb, who attended the school in the 2000s, said she was "inspired" by her teachers to become one herself. Both women praised the school's staff for their support as they juggled their jobs and coursework.

Head teacher Ryan Stevens said he was proud to have been part of their journey and that their presence would inspire current pupils. He noted that while a training placement does not guarantee a job at Pakefield, there are likely to be opportunities within the Active Learning Trust, which runs the school and three other primary schools in the Lowestoft area.