Mrs Lesley Turner
Teaching Awards 2008 Winner
The Ted Wragg Award for Lifetime Achievement, sponsored by The Innovation Unit in East Midlands
Little Hill Primary School, WIGSTON
Lesley Turner has transformed the educational experience of thousands of pupils. Since she arrived at Little Hill 16 years ago, ‘like a breath of fresh air’, Lesley has inspired everyone who has come into contact with her. One said she had “dragged the school kicking and screaming into the 21st century.”
As headteacher, Lesley had a vision for the school, which she has achieved, and today Little Hill is deemed ‘outstanding’ in every respect. She has a sense of purpose which is admired by colleagues, parents and pupils. Lesley is always present at out-of-school activities, whether it is the Christmas concert or the disco, welcoming parents and visitors.
Lesley promotes music and the arts to all children, and is never afraid of trying out new ideas. Three-quarters of all children play a musical instrument and the school orchestra has seventy five members. Four Christmas concerts are held each year to give everyone a chance to perform publicly!
Parents value how she is always available if they have a problem, whatever else is happening at the school. Lesley is even happy to ring at eight or nine at night if that helps to resolve the problem.
Lesley continually keeps ahead of thinking in education, from attendance at training through to her own Masters degree in education. Her wealth of knowledge and experience after 40 years in teaching means is she sought after as a School Improvement Partner (SIP) and a consultant, the income from which is invested into school projects, such as the creation of a stage in the school hall.
She sees the potential in colleagues and nurtures them. Many go on to be heads and deputies in their own right. One colleague said: “Coming to this school has allowed me to blossom”. A ‘dinner lady’ at Little Hill progressed to teaching assistant, despite having misgivings about her own abilities.
Lesley was described by pupils as “the best teacher in the whole universe”, and she will be missed by everyone when she retires at the end of this term. Judges said they were “enchanted” by her, describing Lesley as “the ultimate professional and a lovely person”.
