Incredible 30 years of service for school colleague

Elm Tree Primary School in Lowestoft is celebrating a remarkable milestone as long‑standing Teaching Assistant Leon Fox marks 30 years of service to the school community.

Leon first joined Elm Tree at just 22 years old, beginning as part time Teaching Assistant listening to children read in the mornings. His commitment quickly became clear, and after taking on a one‑to‑one support role for a year and a half, he became an Early Years Teaching Assistant in 1997. Over the past three decades, Leon has worked across every age group in the school and now works in Reception, alongside delivering a range of KS1 interventions in the afternoons.

A familiar and reassuring presence for generations of families, Leon is also a regular volunteer on school residential trips, including the popular visits to Hilltops. His enthusiasm and calm support have made him a favourite among pupils and staff alike. Leon played an especially vital role during the COVID‑19 lockdowns: To help maintain a sense of connection within the school community, he launched a daily online storytelling series. From March to July 2020, he read a new children’s book every day on Facebook, with his son acting as cameraman.

The videos became a treasured part of many families’ routines and attracted attention from local press and radio. Leon revived the project in December 2020, even filming stories on location in local parks to bring them to life. When asked about his favourite story to read, Leon’s answer is instant: “The Mr Men books - especially Mr Bump.”

Reflecting on his time at Elm Tree, Leon says he has “enjoyed being part of the school family” and that it has been a significant part of his family life too - his son also attended the school after Leon started. Looking to the future, Leon says he still feels “drawn to stay at Elm Tree,” saying: “My skills have benefited the school, and the school has benefited me immensely.”

Elm Tree Headteacher Julia Halliday praised Leon’s contribution, saying: “What can I say about Mr Fox! He is an incredible member of our Elm Tree family. His passion for sharing stories with our young people and role play to make characters come alive is amazing. The impact he has had on our pupils, past and present, is incredible. Everywhere we go someone remembers Mr Fox!”