Tiyana Thompson

“My journey into leadership really began during my time at Birmingham City University. I initially chose to study English and Media because I was passionate about both, but it was the combination of academic study and practical experience that ultimately shaped my path. 

“The placements were particularly formative. My first teaching placement was in a primary school where I later secured my first teaching post as an early career teacher. Having that continuity, alongside the guidance of a strong mentor, allowed me to develop my practice with confidence and purpose from the very beginning of my career. 

“Studying English also laid an important foundation for my leadership today. The focus on language, analysis and critical thinking continues to shape how I approach the teaching of writing and reading across my school, where I now lead English. 

“BCU didn’t just prepare me to enter the classroom; it gave me the tools, experiences and belief to grow into leadership and to understand the wider impact education can have across a school and its community. 

“I am now the Vice Principal at Lift Schools in Birmingham. I initially started as a Year 5 teacher and have since played a key role in the school’s development, contributing to it being rated Outstanding in all areas in its most recent Ofsted inspection. 

“I currently lead English, Pupil Premium and Behaviour, alongside teaching across Year 5 and Year 6. My focus is on ensuring that every pupil receives a high-quality education and the support they need to succeed. 

“Beyond my own school, I lead our Talk for Writing Training Centre, working with schools across Birmingham and Coventry to improve writing outcomes and support effective curriculum implementation. This enables me to contribute to improving practice and outcomes beyond my own setting. 

“I also co-lead our Midlands Young Authors Project, now in its third year, which brings together pupils from multiple schools to write and publish their own work. This experience gives children a real sense of pride and achievement, helping them to see themselves as successful writers. 

“Through all of this, my aim is to improve outcomes, develop strong teaching practice and ensure that children are given the opportunities and experiences they need to thrive. 

“Developing the next generation is central to my role. As educators, we are not only responsible for outcomes today but for shaping the future of both our profession and our communities. 

“This starts with the children in our classrooms. It is important that pupils are given the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed but also that they can see themselves in future careers and leadership roles. Providing opportunities such as the Midlands Young Authors Project allows children to develop their voice, take pride in their work and begin to see what they can achieve. 

“Alongside this, I support the development of future educators through mentoring trainee teachers and early career teachers, as well as through my role as a Year Group Network Lead. This involves facilitating professional development and creating opportunities for teachers across our Trust to collaborate and share strong practice. 

“I am currently completing my National Professional Qualification for Headship and I am particularly aware of the importance of representation in leadership. The proportion of Black female headteachers nationally remains very low. Increasing this representation starts early, by ensuring that children see role models who reflect their backgrounds and by continuing to develop and support diverse talent within the profession. 

“BCU plays an important role in supporting the development of Birmingham’s workforce, particularly within education. Its strong emphasis on practical experience alongside academic study ensures that graduates are well prepared to enter the profession. 

“For me, the placements were key. They provided valuable insight into the realities of teaching and allowed me to build the experience and confidence needed to secure my first role. 

“BCU also played a significant role in developing my subject knowledge and critical thinking, particularly through my English degree, which continues to influence my work as an English leader. 

“As someone now working in school leadership and across a wider regional network, I see first-hand the importance of high-quality teacher training. The skills, knowledge and experiences developed at BCU enable educators to make a meaningful impact within their schools and wider communities.”