Inspirational headteacher named a Cumbria ‘Alumnus of the Year 2025’
An inspiring educator who has fulfilled his ambition of becoming a headteacher just ten years after graduating is the latest recipient of a University of Cumbria Alumnus of the Year award.
Nathan Pow, 32, from Chester-le-Street, County Durham, now leads St Mary and St Thomas Church of England Primary School in St Helens, part of the Three Saints Academy Trust. His achievement marks a decade of dedication to teaching and leadership, beginning with his BA (Hons) Primary Education (5–11) with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) at the University of Cumbria, where he graduated in 2015.
He said:
“Without the University of Cumbria, I wouldn’t have the life I have now. I met my wife here, welcomed my children at the Cumberland Infirmary, in Carlisle, and spent a decade working in Cumbrian schools. Cumbria will always hold a special place in my heart.”
From Dentistry Dreams to Classroom Leadership
Nathan’s journey into teaching was not straightforward. Initially planning a career in dentistry, he switched paths after completing a Childcare and Education Diploma and working as a teaching assistant. Then he saw a TV advert for the University of Cumbria which changed everything.
Nathan recalls “When I saw that advert, it felt like a sign. I applied, and it completely transformed my life.”
On his very first day in halls, Nathan met Joanne, the woman who would become his wife and strongest supporter. Married in 2019, they now have two young children, Millie and Henry. “Joanne’s knowledge of early years is phenomenal,” Nathan says. “Her support has allowed me to pursue my career while we balance family life.”
Student Life and Early Career
During his time at university, Nathan embraced every opportunity, serving as a student ambassador, supporting open days and working at graduation ceremonies. His peers voted him “Most Likely to Become a Headteacher” at the leavers’ ball - a prediction he fulfilled in record time.
After graduating, Nathan secured his first teaching role at Brook Street School in Carlisle, before moving to the city’s Newlaithes Infant and Nursery School, where he became deputy headteacher in 2024. Alongside classroom teaching, he has mentored trainee teachers and served as a Primary Mastery Maths Specialist for the North West Maths Hub, helping many University of Cumbria students secure their first posts.
Nathan has always stayed connected to his alma mater. He regularly returned to speak at open days and careers events, sharing insights with and mentoring aspiring teachers.
A Lifelong Ambition Realised
Headship has been Nathan’s ultimate ambition. “As a teacher, you make a difference to 30 children each day. As a headteacher, you can influence hundreds,” he says. “I wanted to be that approachable leader who drives a school forward and makes every child feel valued.”
To prepare, Nathan completed the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) an 18-month programme he undertook while still a class teacher.
Earlier this year, Nathan achieved his dream, becoming headteacher at St Mary and St Thomas.
Nathan said: “Teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it is about shaping lives, inspiring curiosity, and building futures. You will need resilience, creativity, and compassion. And yes, sometimes a little luck will play its part – being in the right place at the right time, meeting the right mentor, or seizing an unexpected opportunity. But luck alone is never enough. The opportunities I have and others will gain at the University of Cumbria enables you to grow, to adapt and to thrive in your careers.”
Dr Ruth Harrison Palmer, Dean of the Institute of Education, Arts and Society at the University of Cumbria, said:
“Nathan’s story is a testament to ambition, resilience, and the transformative power of education. He is an outstanding role model for our graduates and for anyone aspiring to make a difference in their community.”
The University of Cumbria’s Alumni Association has over 82,000 members across the world. The Cumbria Network offers professional opportunities and networking to anyone who has graduated from the University of Cumbria or its legacy institutions. Find out more at https://cumbrianetwork.global/
Hear from Nathan Pow, Alumnus of the Year November 2025