Home   Sheerness   News   Article

Pupils from West Minster and Rose Street primary schools star in video to attract new teachers to Sheppey

Pupils have appealed directly for teachers to work at two Sheppey schools in an attempt to change people's minds about the island.

Boys and girls from West Minster and Rose Street primary schools in Sheerness are the stars of a short film being used to recruit people to Sheppey.

Executive head teacher Steve Davies said: “We needed something to show what a wonderful place the Island is.

Children appeal directly for teachers in the promotional video
Children appeal directly for teachers in the promotional video

“Yes, we have challenges, but some parts are beautiful. It’s not a bad place to live or work.”

He added: “We asked the children to pick a vision for the school and then decided to ask them what sort of teachers they wanted.

“We also wanted to encourage teachers who did know the area to visit Sheppey. Once they come they invariably love it.”

Star of the show is nine-year-old Brooke.

Speaking to the camera she tells prospective teachers: “We need your help. If you think you have the qualities we need, why not come and meet us?”

Sheerness West Federation

The Sheerness West school motto is “Our dreams can come true if you have a positive view” and they are looking for teachers like you to make that happen.

Posted by Promoting People on Friday, 29 January 2016

The pupils came up with their own wish list for candidates:

  • Teachers should be caring and understanding;
  • They must be kind, generous and loyal;
  • It’s OK to be strict but they must make lessons interesting;
  • They have to be fun and good at maths and football;
  • They need to be a superhero.

The pupils added: “No boring teachers need apply.”

A still from the teachers' recruitment video made by Promoting People
A still from the teachers' recruitment video made by Promoting People

The video also features West Minster’s assistant head teacher Sam Mackay and Year 4 teacher Kimberley Joyce explaining why they like living on Sheppey.

Sam said: “I can see the sea from my bedroom window, go for long walks along the promenade, visit The Glen for picnics and see historical attractions with my children.”

Kimberley said: “I’ve moved from London and just bought my first property.

“I’m very excited because it is so close to the beach. I love running. Whether it’s winter or summer it’s just a beautiful place to be.”

The video shows footage of the Elmley bird reserve, the Island’s beaches and highlights Sheppey’s contribution to the birth of British aviation.

Mr Davies tells would-be teachers: “The schools have such a great atmosphere. All the people are really friendly, hard-working and dedicated.

“Sometimes it’s not easy, but the work we do with our children and families is really rewarding.

“We work hard and play hard. We have fun doing both here.”

Executive head Steve Davies
Executive head Steve Davies

Both schools are part of the Sheerness West Federation and share the motto: “Our dreams can come true if you have a positive view.”

Brooke added: “We are proud to live here. I am sure you will be proud to work here, too, to help make our dreams a reality.”

The video, which can be viewed on Facebook, ends with a hall full of pupils pleading: “Come and teach at our school.”

The schools are advertising for a raft of teachers to join them in September.

The closing date is February 29.

Mr Davies added: “We have a caring ethos teamed with a sense of fun and commitment to learning. We can do anything with our full biscuit tin!”

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More