Assistant Principal Miss Poole has been shortlisted for a prestigious award in recognition of her unwavering dedication and transformative impact on Bournville All-Through School.
Miss Poole, who has been working at the school for 20 years, says being nominated for the Lifetime Achievement Service Award means a lot.
“What I’ve always enjoyed most is the people. The students, the staff, and the sense of community. Seeing students grow and knowing you’ve played even a small part in their journey is what makes the job so rewarding,” she said.
Colleague Natalie Thompson, FMAT’s Academy Improvement Advisor for Maths, says Miss Poole has been a constant source of strength and stability throughout some of the school’s most challenging periods.
“She has helped guide the school through change while always keeping students’ needs at the forefront.”
She added that Miss Poole has designed and led a successful Personal Development programme, runs the student council to inspire young people to reach for leadership roles, fundraises for multiple charities and the wider community and is a trained mental health first aider – able to support with pastoral care.
“Miss Poole always advocates for children taking part in all available opportunities and works diligently to address any barriers in order to help them do so. This has ensured that all students, no matter their personal circumstances, are able to access a wide variety trips, visits and extra-curricular activities.
“Her motto is that no child should miss out”
Miss Poole is also known for being a strong advocate for equality, and this work on is visible across the school. She has developed resources promoting protected characteristics, fostering an environment built on respect, diversity, and community.
Her unwavering commitment, compassion, and leadership have shaped the lives of countless students and colleagues. She embodies our Trust’s values and has left an enduring legacy at Bournville All-Through School.
Miss Poole is one of five Fairfax Multi-Academy Trust colleagues shortlisted for honours at the Midlands Education Awards 2026, taking place at Millennium Point on Friday 3 July.