Katie Hopewell

Profile

Biography

I have been a primary school teacher for nearly 15 years working predominantly at the same school. I really enjoy my job and the fact that no day is the same! I have taught years 1-5 with the majority of experience in year 4 (which is my favourite year to teach!) I am phase lead for years 2, 3 and 4 in a large 3 form entry school. I am currently responsible for leading computing and have also been subject lead for Science, MFL and Art. I am currently completing an NPQ in Senior leadership and hope to progress to Assistant/Deputy Head in the upcoming years.

Why were you interested in the role?

I have supported a range of trainee teachers during my career and is one aspect of my job that I find particularly interesting. As an established teacher, with a wealth of experience, I particularly enjoy supporting individuals to develop and wanted to explore a role that enabled me to do this further.

What does your role bring to student experience?

One of the most important things my role brings to the student experience is consistency. Lead mentors play a crucial part in making sure that mentoring across placements is high quality, supportive, and aligned. I genuinely believe that a good mentor can make or break a trainee’s experience, so ensuring that all trainees receive clear, structured, and meaningful support is absolutely vital.

What inspired you to do the role with Edge Hill University?

Last year, I had the opportunity to support a trainee teacher from Edge Hill University and I was extremely impressed with the mentoring program and support that was offered as a mentor. After supporting a range of trainees from a range of establishments, I felt that Edge Hill was much more supportive and structured than others. When the opportunity arose to undertake a lead mentoring role at Edge Hill university, I was excited for this prospect.    

What are the top 3 skills your role is supporting you to develop?

• Understanding of theory – this role allowed me to revisit and deepen my understanding of educational theory. Many aspects of teaching had become second nature, and engaging with the theory behind the practice enabled me to reflect more critically and purposefully on my approaches in the classroom and as a leader.
• Research – I actively engaged in research and professional reading, which not only contributed to my own development but also had a direct impact on the students in my setting. Being part of research groups provided the time and structure to explore current evidence-informed strategies, which I then used to inform and enhance practice across my phase team and beyond.
• The opportunity to try something different – After 15 years in the classroom, this role gave me the chance to step outside of routine and collaborate with others in similar leadership positions. I worked alongside specialist colleagues, trialled new initiatives, and supported the development of trainee teachers. These experiences helped to refresh my practice and broaden my leadership capacity.

What insights are you gaining from your current role and how is this supported by staff at EHU?

My current role has given me valuable insights into the importance of providing consistent, high-quality support for trainee teachers and ensuring that mentoring is effective, supportive and aligned regardless of the placements.

Working closely with mentors has highlighted the need for clear expectations, regular professional dialogue, and ongoing support to maintain consistency across different classrooms and key stages. I’ve also learned how essential it is to build a culture where mentors feel confident and supported in their role, and where trainees are given purposeful opportunities to reflect, take risks, and grow.

I have been highly supported by EHU staff, as well as through additional training courses (like NASBIT). The training and support have enabled me to reflect on my own practise, how I can support others – especially with a focus on trainees and mentors.

What are you most enjoying about your role, and what are the challenges (if any), and how have you overcome these?

One of the parts of the role I’ve found most rewarding is supporting mentors to ensure consistency across placements. I especially enjoy being involved in the virtual QA process – it’s one of my favourite aspects of the role, as it allows me to work closely with both mentors and trainees to offer support, celebrate strengths, and help maintain high standards.

What’s the best thing about Edge Hill University to you?

The best thing about Edge Hill University to me is the people. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working at EHU and although the role has been completely different to what I do on a day-to-day basis, I haven’t felt nervous or worried with any the roles that I have undertaken due to support that I have been given.

How have/will your role support your career progression?

I believe this role will enable me to progress further in my career, whatever that might be in the future. With the opportunity to undertake research, projects and other aspects beyond the classroom.   It has also given me a fresh perspective on supporting others including trainee teachers, mentors and colleagues.

I think it’s easy to get stuck in a rut, and after working at the same school for 15 years, I could feel that starting to happen. Taking on this role has given me the space to step back, engage with research, and connect with others in similar positions. It’s really opened my eyes to different perspectives and allowed me to challenge some of the more traditional ways of doing things. It’s been refreshing and has definitely reignited my enthusiasm.

What advice would you give to someone considering this role at Edge Hill University?

This is a fantastic opportunity to do something a bit different than teaching, whilst still having an impact on supporting future generations with their education/careers.

How has Edge Hill supported you during your role?

I have felt so welcome since starting in January. Everybody I have worked with has always made time for me, introducing me to new concepts and explaining everything in detail step by step if necessary.