Meet the Teacher: Holly Pollock of Drumragh Integrated

Tell us a little bit about yourself. My name is Mrs Holly Pollock. I am happily married with two beautiful children. I finished school in 2004 and went to Liverpool where I studied Psychology and Early Years. After I graduated, I started working in Drumragh as a Learning Support Assistant. Whilst working I was able to study part time and completed my MSc in Applied Psychology. I also was seconded and worked for two and a half years as a psychology assistant for the SELB. It has been a busy 13 years.

What makes a great teacher? I have been a classroom assistant for 13 years. A great teacher listens and knows their students, the same applies to all staff within school. We are all role models, and this is important to remember.

What do you find most rewarding about your role? The most rewarding part of my role is helping the students. Observing them grow up and achieve their full potential is very rewarding. My favourite memory to date is the staff race on Sports Day, I still can’t beat Mrs Murray no matter how hard I train!!!

I encourage them to be themselves and enjoy their time at school. One day they will look back and miss these days. I try to instil a hard-working ethos as this will carry them throughout their lives.

What makes Drumragh Integrated College ‘unique’? Drumragh is unique in the relationships between staff and students, this goes beyond teachers, every single member of staff in Drumragh is important. We are a family.

Who or what inspires you and why? I take inspiration from positive people, someone saying something nice or uplifting can really change your whole day.

I am very lucky to work in place where I am a role model and I hope that I inspire the students too. I am also PR Officer for Drumragh, I am the one who always has the camera in her hand. I wish people would stop running away!!

What will you be most remembered for within the school community? I hope that I am most remembered for being “dead on” as the students tell me, haha! I hope that they find me approachable and helpful.

What do you do in your downtime? Downtime? HA! I can’t remember what that is. When I do get some free time, I enjoy keeping fit and walks in the beautiful countryside. I really enjoy baking with my daughter and then eating our delights.

Describe yourself in three words? Perfectionist, logical, loyal.

How do you get straight A’s? Use a ruler.

Drumragh Integrated College, Virtual Open Day is now available, for more information and a virtual tour visit drumraghcollege.co.uk