In memory of Debbie
“We chose to support SHINE in her memory because its work reflects so many of the values she held throughout her life."
Debbie Thompson’s family have chosen to support SHINE in her memory, honouring a teacher whose belief in the power of education shaped her career and the lives of the children she taught.
Debbie was a primary school teacher who spent around a decade teaching Key Stage 2 children in a disadvantaged area of Basildon, Essex.
Throughout her career, she was deeply passionate about education and the opportunities it could provide. She believed every child should have the chance to learn, grow and fulfil their potential, regardless of their circumstances or the opportunities they had been given in life.
Having seen first-hand the difference that a supportive teacher and access to education could make to children and their families, helping those with fewer opportunities mattered deeply to Debbie.
For her, education was about more than academic achievement. She saw it as a way of giving children confidence, independence and greater possibilities for their future.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Debbie’s daughter Emily, who is a teaching assistant in a special educational needs school, said:
“We chose to support SHINE in her memory because its work reflects so many of the values she held throughout her life.
“We felt that continuing to help children access opportunities and education was a meaningful way to honour her passion for teaching and the belief she carried with her throughout her career: that where a child starts in life should not determine where they can end up.”
Debbie passed away in late 2025, aged 61. Donations in her memory can made made at Much Loved.