Hear from our staff

Discover why our passionate members of staff love working at St James Hatcham...

The children are the heart of our school. They are kind, caring and amazing, always with smiles on their faces and so much passion for learning. It might sound cliché, but St James genuinely feels like a home from home. That’s why it’s a magnet for talent and people who love what they do. There is such positivity amongst our team of staff and it is a pleasure to lead such a fantastic school.

Sonia McFarlane, Headteacher

The children are amazing at St James Hatcham, they truly are what makes our school special! I love getting to know each and every one of them. We are a diverse school with a wide range of different cultures, religions and languages spoken under one roof and we learn so much from one another. In my role, I drive the standards in Teaching and Learning, helping the teachers deliver an evolving, ambitious and innovative curriculum. I love that we focus on giving the children hope for the future, equipping them with the life skills and moral compass they need to thrive beyond primary school. We are truly a St James family. The support we receive from our parents and governors means we can continually aim higher for our pupils

Rebecca Matthews, Deputy Headteacher

At St James every child is unique, and it is this that drives what we do. We ensure that the children are at the centre of their own learning and nurture their individual talents through a range of extracurricular activities; whether that be educational, creative or sports based.

Aaron-Kelly Green, Emotional Literacy Support Assistant

The opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of young people is what attracted me to a career in teaching. And at St James Hatcham, we do just that. We are a small school with a nurturing environment where the staff care deeply for not only the children and their families, but for one another too.

Paige Meeks, Teaching Assistant

The children at St James Hatcham are inquisitive and imaginative, you just don’t know what conversations you are going to have with them each day. They really do put a smile on my face and make coming to work enjoyable.

Maria Burnage, Housekeeper and Midday Meal Supervisor

The children at St James Hatcham have a fantastic sense of belonging. They look out for each other and show great empathy—it makes for a wonderfully caring environment. Our Christian values—especially Love and Peace—aren't just words on the wall; they guide how we treat every single child and each other. I have the great pleasure of being the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator which gives me a unique ability to advocate for and champion all pupils regardless of their needs, abilities or backgrounds at the highest possible level within school. The work we do at St James Hatcham empowers our pupils to realise their full potential.

Bonny O'Neill, SENDCo and Class Teacher