Debbie Tinkler - Headteacher, DSL and EY SENCo

Hi, I am the Headteacher of Bolton Primary School and this is my first year as a new head. I’ve been teaching at Bolton since 2012, having graduated from University of Cumbria in 2011. I teach in Class 1 each Monday and teach Computing across the whole school. I lead an Early Years group within the cluster for all early years teachers and TAs for 12 local schools. Also, I lead Computing and Reading across the school. Out of school, I enjoy spending time with my children and family, going for walks and travelling. 

Andrea Moody – Class 1 and History and Geography KS2 teacher

Hi, I’m Andrea Moody, my connection to Bolton goes back many years as I used to be Nursery Manager before I trained as a teacher.  I qualified as a Primary Teacher in 2008 and I am the History & Geography teacher and subject lead across all year groups.  I am also very passionate about teaching in the Early Years where I have a specialism in ‘Early Years Education’ - particularly in early reading, writing and phonics.  I work with the Reception children each morning developing their Literacy and Numeracy skills.  I have three grown up children and enjoy spending time with them.  In my free time I enjoy fell walking, reading and baking.

Rachel Holmes – Class 1 teacher

Hi, I’m Rachel Holmes. I am the class teacher for Class 1, teaching Year 1 and Year 2 pupils. As an Early Career Teacher, I am enthusiastic about developing my practice and creating a positive, engaging learning environment where every child feels supported and encouraged to do their best. I plan and deliver lessons that are creative, inclusive and well-structured, ensuring learning is purposeful and accessible for all pupils. I aim to build strong foundations in key skils while nurturing curiousity, confidence and a love of learning. 

Bianca Cousin - Class 2 Teacher and DDSL

I first qualified from Edge Hill University in 2000. I taught throughout the key-stages during the 10 years that I taught at Kirkby Stephen Primary School. Warcop Primary School was my next post and then for a further 4 and a half years I have had the opportunity to deliver high-quality PE across five primary schools. This has enabled me to teach a subject that I am very passionate about and developed my teaching skills. My other interests within the curriculum are Maths, Design and Technology and making cross-curricular links with PE. As many of you know, I am a busy mum of three so feel that I`m well equipped to support families and understand the trials and tribulations of family life. My hobbies include Rugby and quality family time.

Alice Mepham – Class 3 teacher

Hi, I’m Alice Mepham. I am the Class Teacher for Year 5 and 6 pupils. I am passionate about supporting children through the important final stages of their primary education, both academically and personally, as they prepare for the transition to secondary school. 

Alongside my classroom role, I lead PHSE, World Views and Religions and Writing/GAPS across the school. In these roles, I work collaborately with colleagues to develop engaging, includive curriculum provision that supports pupils' understanding, confidnce and individual progress. I have experience preparing pupils for Y6 SATS and understand the importance of balancing high expectations with wellbeing and confidence. I aim to create a calm and support classroom environment. 

Heather Lowthian - Teacher of Science and Music, DDSL and SENCo

Hi, my name is Heather Lowthian. I studied Microbiology and Environmental
Science at university in London.  I went on to work as a technical scientist, food and water microbiologist, technical advisor at a cheese farm and a milk analyst before retraining as a primary school teacher in 2000. I began my teaching career as a class teacher but then started to specialise; teaching science and computing to all year groups.  I currently work at two small primary schools teaching: science, computing, spelling/punctuation/grammar and music.  I am passionate about science and I hope I can pass some of that enthusiasm on to the children I teach.  I love teaching and watching the children grow.  No two days are the same and the days fly by - it's never boring! I feel very privileged.  Outside of school, I enjoy: walking the dogs, horse riding, swimming, camping and generally being outdoors. 

Kate Walsh - Teacher of French

I love French, having lived in France for a few years earlier in my career. I teach in 6 Primary Schools within the Eden Valley. I began teaching in secondary schools but now thoroughly enjoy introducing language to younger learners. Out of school, I enjoy mountain biking, ski-ing and running with the rest of my family!

Rebecca Hodgson -  RHSE

Hi, I’m Rebecca and I have been teaching RSHE across the school and other local schools for four years.  In my spare time I enjoy exercising, travelling, socialising and walking my two cheeky Border Terriers, Stanley and Peggy.

Claire Rankin - Teaching Assistant

Hi, I joined Bolton Primary School in September 2018, having previously worked at North Lakes School in Penrith. I`m a TA working mainly in Class 1. I also provide additional support on a 1:1 basis and with small groups. Before becoming a TA in 2016, I pursued a career in rural development following graduation. I have 3 children and enjoy spending time with my family. In my spare time, I enjoy cycling, kayaking and fell walking.

Gail Burns - Teaching Assistant 

Hi, I am an TA at Bolton Primary School and have worked here for 18 years. In the mornings I help teach Maths in class 2 and class 3, I also support KS2 most afternoons. I started my career as a TA after my youngest child started school; previously being a parent helper at Crosby Ravensworth School. Immediately after I finished my training, I joined the staff at Bolton and have been here ever since. When not at school, I enjoy spending my time quizzing, reading, fell walking and spending time with my grandchildren.                         

Andrea Bradley - Teaching Assistant  

Hi, my name is Andrea and I joined Bolton Primary in September 2024. I support children in Class 1 with their learning, wellbeing and development. I work closely with the class teacher to provide a positive and inclusive teaching environment where every child can thrive. In my spare time, I love spending time with my own family. 

Linda Kipling - Cleaner and Dinner Lady  

I am the cleaner and dinner lady at Bolton Primary.  

Becky Warman - Midday Supervisor

Hi I'm Becky, I live in Bolton and I have been Midday Supervisor since 2019.  I love spending time with my family and walking my dog.  My favourite pastime is watching crime and medical dramas.

Helen Austin - Business Manager  

I am the business manager at Bolton, which means I will likely be your first point of contact at the school.  I have worked at Bolton School since February 2022 and my children attended the school.  My career has previously been in various accounting and finance roles.  In my spare time I enjoy reading, exercising, spending time with my family and socialising with friends.