AN ENTHUSIASTIC apprentice has returned to his primary school just six years after leaving.

Liam Halliwell, 17, from Whitworth, has started work as an apprentice teaching assistant at St John with St Michael CofE Primary School in Shawforth.

With the support of the school in Moss Side Street and Hopwood Hall College in Rochdale, where he is studying as part of his apprenticeship, Liam has been developing his knowledge and skills.

He said: “My training within the school and with Hopwood Hall College has really helped me develop my understanding of children’s individual needs.

“The support I’ve been given to do this has been great.”

Liam has been using his love of sports in his work at the school, helping with rugby, table tennis and lacrosse lessons to name a few.

Liam said: “I’m particularly proud of all the sports trophies I have helped the school to win over the last few months.”

Deputy headteacher Kath Thomas said: “We take pride in mentoring and training future employees.

“By developing partnerships with colleges such as Hopwood Hall College it enables the school to form links with past pupils.

“It also gives past students opportunities for workplace experiences and helping them to develop their own skills through continuous professional development opportunities.

“Liam has helped the school develop community links with other schools and parents.”