Ellie Catterson
I attended Walton Academy from 2003 to 2008.
After leaving Walton, I went on to study music at a further education provider, where I was given many opportunities to perform and to develop my understanding of music technology and equipment. It was during this time that I realised how much I loved both music and learning, which led me to choose a combined degree in education and music at Lincoln Bishop University.
Alongside my studies, I joined a band and spent time touring, giving me the chance to experience life beyond the classroom while continuing to build my confidence and creativity. At the same time, I completed a wide range of placements in different educational settings, including primary and secondary schools, SEN settings and within the prison education system. These experiences showed me how much of a difference education can make in people’s lives.
After graduating, I took the opportunity to travel and volunteer overseas, spending time in countries including Canada, Germany, Austria and Poland, before continuing my journey across Australia, Southeast Asia and Europe. While living in Europe, I set up an English teaching business in Czechia and Slovakia with my partner. Establishing our own language school was both challenging and rewarding, and it gave me a deeper understanding of education in an international setting.
I later returned to the UK to complete a PGCE in primary education and have been working with primary-aged children since 2022. I now work as a teacher at Newton Bridge Academy, where I enjoy bringing together my love of music, education and my international experiences to support and inspire young learners every day.
Looking back, the experiences I gained through living and travelling in different countries have been incredibly valuable, giving me a broader perspective and a deeper appreciation of different cultures and ways of life. I would encourage students to stay open to new opportunities, be curious about the world around them, and trust that every experience – especially those beyond your comfort zone – can help shape your future in meaningful ways.
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We are Walton
Please visit our dedicated alumni page, We are Walton, for more inspiring stories and experiences from our former students, and to learn how you can become part of our unique network.
