Ben Mali Macfadyen

This is my fourth year in Totnes and I am thrilled to return to teaching EYFS, welcoming in the newest members to our St. John’s community. 

 

My commitment to Walnut class is to provide the nurture, opportunities, support and positive challenges that will enable each child to thrive and succeed. My background in the expressive arts has given me the tools to create imaginative, rich learning opportunities for children in our class, and i’m enjoying learning from them too! I’m very lucky to work alongside such an experienced team here, and making use of the amazing outdoor grounds on offer.  

 

Outside of school i’m an avid reader and I love to swim and cycle. I’m also a huge nature fan, and am currently enjoying being out of the city so I can learn more about the plants of Devon. ‘Mali’ actually means ‘gardener’ so it feels appropriate!

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Louise Wright

​I am incredibly lucky, as not only have I taught at St John’s since 2010, but I actually attended the school myself as a child! For seven years of my childhood, I was able to explore the nature trail, investigate all of the beautiful grounds and participate in wonderful opportunities within the school community. I feel privileged to be able to offer pupils the same exciting and engaging opportunities, which I still remember fondly today.

 

I have spent a number of years teaching in Reception; sharing those precious first memories of school with many, many children! I have also enjoyed moving up through the school; mirroring the creative and hands-on approach from the Early Years curriculum. My aim is to ensure that every child is given the opportunity to achieve their potential through fun, engaging learning experiences which enable them to develop and thrive in their own way.    

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This year I am excited to develop my leadership role across the school further. I will continue to lead English (including Phonics and early reading) and am excited to continue our school journey into reading for pleasure. Early reading and writing is a passion of mine and I strongly believe that it is every child’s right, to be given the tools and knowledge in order to become confident and passionate readers and writers.

 

I have two young children of my own, so life is very busy at the moment! Outside of school, I love spending time with family and friends, especially outdoors.