Dawn Matthews

FROM HOOK LANE PARENT TO RECEPTION TEACHER

For Dawn Matthews, Hook Lane has always been more than just a school, having been part of her family’s story for many years.

Now a Reception teacher at the school, Dawn’s journey began when her eldest son joined Hook Lane Nursery. What started as volunteering while her children were young eventually became the first step towards a career in teaching.

"I had always wanted to become a teacher," Dawn explains. "I knew I wanted to be in a school environment, which is why I started volunteering."

After completing her training and gaining experience elsewhere, Dawn returned to Hook Lane when a teaching position became available, and is now in her fifth year teaching at the school, having worked across Reception and Year 1.

For Dawn, working with younger children has always felt like the perfect fit.

"They're like little sponges. They just soak everything up!"

She loves their honesty, enthusiasm and the way they approach the world with curiosity.

"They're full of wonder. Everything is an adventure, and they just want to know things."

One of the most rewarding parts of teaching Reception is seeing the progress children make throughout the year. Dawn loves watching children who might initially feel unsure about learning begin to develop confidence and pride in what they can achieve.

"By the end of the year, you've got them excited about those things. They're proud of the work they've created themselves, and it's really lovely to see that change."

One of Dawn’s favourite moments is seeing children discover the joy of reading.

"It’s when they suddenly realise, 'I'm actually reading this.' You give them the time and space to take their time, and then they realise what they've achieved."

Having experienced Hook Lane both as a parent and a member of staff, Dawn believes the school’s greatest strength is its community.

"I’d describe it as a nurturing environment where we really get to know the children. They're not just numbers when they come through the door."

That sense of connection is something she sees throughout the school.

"It's not just something we say; you can actually see it in the relationships between people."

For teachers, finding the right environment is just as important as finding the right career. Dawn knows this from experience. Before returning to Hook Lane, she worked in other schools and realised that not every school feels like the right fit.

"Don't ever be afraid to find your place. Keep looking until you find the right environment for you. For me, that’s Hook Lane. This is the school where I've been able to become the best teacher I can be."