Jenny Tingay

            I started my teaching at Kirkby Lonsdale in what was  then Westmorland, teaching all ages from 5 to 15 at certain times of the week. This was a valuable start. Next, I moved to Morecambe for two years of upper infants and lower juniors. Moving with my husband to Northallerton, I kept my hand in by producing two children and running the Methodist playgroup. After five years , we moved to Snainton and I began part-time teaching at various village schools, but chiefly at Brompton by Sawdon where I stayed for five years. This was more experience with varied age groups.

            A quick two years in the old school building at Staxton school followed. During this time, I came across Mr. Bortoft on the Advanced Diploma course. We were completing the Sound and Image section. ( I have always been interested in Photography and video.) Little did I know that I would follow Mr. Bortoft to St. Martin's school. I spent eight years in class 7 and have been in class 3 for about the same time.

             My passions are my grandchildren, gardening, natural history in general and a multitude of creative activities. I take my binoculars and my camera everywhere with me together with a copy of The Plant Finder. I enjoy walking and cycling. I have done Garden Design at night class and am currently doing City and Guilds Ceramics. Next year I shall try welding! I have been in the Staxton Singers for about seven years. Last year I travelled to China and hope to do South America next year.

             In school, I am considered untidy and a squirrel. I am happiest with the class all creating wonderful things and making a lovely mess!. Oh by the way, I am Science and Art co-ordinator. I think I have always wanted to be a teacher, ( but before that , at age six, I wanted to be a fairy ). Every day is different and the children at St Martin's are lovely.