Our Staff
Headteacher
Miss McKeague
I joined Shirwell Community Primary School in September 2025 as Headteacher, I have 11 years of teaching experience and a background in SEN and school leadership. I am passionate about education and deeply committed to creating a nurturing, inclusive, and inspiring environment where every child feels seen, supported, and encouraged to thrive.
As Headteacher, I serve as the Designated Safeguarding Lead and oversee both the strategic development and the day-to-day running of the school. Since arriving at Shirwell, I have felt incredibly welcomed by the whole school community. It is truly a joy to work in such a beautiful setting in the North Devon countryside.
I believe strongly in the power of partnerships between school and home, and I value open communication and collaboration with families. As I continue to settle into my role, I am keen to hear your thoughts, ideas, and aspirations for the future of Shirwell. Together, I hope we can build on the school’s many strengths and embrace new opportunities with confidence and ambition.
Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator
Mrs Barnett
Teacher
Mrs Downs
I am the Key Stage 2 teacher and have been teaching for over 10 years, gaining a wide range of experience along the way, including time spent travelling and working abroad, learning from different communities. I moved from Manchester to Devon six years ago and feel incredibly lucky to now live and work in such a beautiful part of the country.
In my teaching, I aim to create a calm, encouraging classroom where children feel confident to challenge themselves, ask questions, and develop a genuine love of learning.
Alongside my classroom role, I also teach yoga and Forest School, which strongly influences my approach — I value wellbeing, connection to nature, and hands-on experiences as part of children’s development.
Outside of school, I enjoy walking my dog, swimming and surfing, and spending as much time outdoors as possible. I’m also an avid reader and love discovering a good book to get lost in.
Teacher
Miss Broome
I am the EYFS and Key Stage 1 teacher in Acorns Class, where I am dedicated to creating a warm, engaging, and supportive learning environment. I care deeply about helping young children grow in confidence, curiosity, and independence, and I strive to ensure that every child has the opportunity to shine in their own unique way.
When I am not at school, you will usually find me spending quality time with my daughter as we explore new places together. Being a parent has strengthened my belief in the importance of nurturing and joyful learning experiences, and it continues to inspire the work I do every day
Teaching Assistant
Mrs Sharpe
My connection with Shirwell School began in 2005 as a parent, and I have been part of the staff as a Teaching Assistant since 2008. Although my youngest daughter left thirteen years ago, I am still here—Shirwell holds a very special place in our family’s heart.
Most of my experience has been with Reception and Class 1, but in recent years I have enjoyed working more widely across all year groups. I strongly believe in outdoor learning through play and exploration for children of all ages, adults included. Our Friday outdoor sessions are a highlight of the week, as we care for the school garden, observe nature, and support children in following their own outdoor interests.
My background is firmly rooted in the outdoors; before having children, I worked mainly in horticulture. When I am not at school, I can usually be found working on our family farm or running our small eco campsite
Teaching Assistant
Mrs Morton
I have been working in education for seven years. I am a qualified teacher and currently a teaching assistant at Shirwell, where I support learning day to day by covering classes and working with children in small groups. Shirwell feels like one big family, and I love being part of such a close, supportive community. In my free time, I enjoy reading and hiking along the coastal path.
Teaching Assistant
Miss Chapple
After training as a Nursery Nurse and working for a family, I was successful in securing a position as a Teaching Assistant at Shirwell School. That was 29 years ago, and I have been here ever since. It has been a privilege to see the school grow and evolve, and to watch so many children flourish during their time here.
When I am not working and have the time, I love to read. I also enjoy baking and exploring a variety of different crafts.
Teaching Assistant
Mrs Williams
My role as a Teaching Assistant began in 2017 when my son was in Reception. I continued to develop in this role over the years and joined Shirwell in 2024.
As a Teaching Assistant, I have supported children across all year groups and worked closely with individual pupils on a one-to-one basis. One of my proudest achievements was gaining my Thrive Practitioner Certificate in 2019. I am proud to have supported so many children and their families, providing a warm and nurturing environment where pupils felt safe, valued, and able to share their emotions during play, talk, and nurture sessions.
I strive to support all children at Shirwell by helping to provide a calm, supportive, safe, and nurturing environment. I also deliver additional interventions, both in small groups and on a one-to-one basis, to help pupils build confidence and reach their full potential.
Outside of school, I am a busy mother who enjoys spending quality time with my fourteen-year-old son and the rest of my family. I especially enjoy new experiences, holidays, and taking beautiful long walks with our dog.
Administrator
Mrs Holmes
I have worked in schools for 15 years and became the Administrator at Shirwell in September 2013. I enjoy the variety the role offers. Now that my children have grown up (remarkably quickly), I have found time to pursue personal interests, recently completing a BSc in Natural Sciences (Environmental Science) through the Open University. Outside of work, I am currently walking the South West Coast Path with my husband, and I enjoy reading and growing my own fruit and vegetables.
Cleaner
Mrs Yardley
I have been involved in cleaning for over 50 years, both hands-on and in management roles across a variety of companies, before joining Shirwell School in 2023. As the school cleaner, my role involves ensuring that classrooms, shared areas, and facilities are kept hygienic, safe, and welcoming for pupils, staff, and visitors.
Shirwell’s beautiful countryside setting makes the job especially enjoyable, and I appreciate the peace and quiet as I work. It is a pleasure to be part of such a friendly and supportive team.
Meal-Time Assistant
Miss Stevenson
I have had a long and happy association with Shirwell Primary School, beginning when my daughter joined in 2001. Shortly afterwards, I began working here as a Mealtime Assistant. In 2009, while continuing in that role, I also became a Teaching Assistant, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Being part of classroom life and supporting the children in different ways was incredibly rewarding.
I left the school for a short while when my second child was born, and later returned when he began at Shirwell in 2017.
I feel very privileged to have witnessed both of my children’s journeys through primary school, alongside so many other wonderful children over the years.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and our Husky, Eva.
Kitchen Manager
Mrs Westaway
Over the years I have spent at Shirwell, I would like to think that the children have enjoyed the lunches I prepare. As the school cook, my role is not only to provide healthy, nutritious meals but also to create a positive and welcoming lunchtime experience. I take great pride in serving the children to the best of my ability, making sure they have meals that are both nourishing and enjoyable.
Cooking is something I genuinely love, and it is a privilege to be able to bring that passion into school each day. Preparing food that helps fuel the pupils for their learning, play, and growth is incredibly rewarding.