HELEN Mayne is dedicated to her students and her work, and goes above and beyond every day.
She is the very worthy winner of our Secondary School Teacher of the Year award for 2026.
Helen is the Head of Performing Arts at Knutsford Academy and has worked at the school since 1993.
The nomination reads: “Helen has dedicated her life to developing young people's ability within the performing arts.
“She goes above and beyond every day and puts on exceptionally high-quality extracurricular shows voluntarily to further the skills and knowledge of her students.
“She changes lives.”
Helen has directed countless school productions over the years and helped young people to find their voices.
Head Teacher Karen Key said: “As a teacher and a leader, Helen's dedication, passion, and ambition for our students is second to none.
“Helen champions every student, and her commitment to them realising their potential is very much appreciated by every single one of them.
“We are extremely proud of her and her achievements, and this award is recognition of her success.”
Her students were eager to sing her praises, with Thomas, aged 18, commenting: Miss Mayne brings everyone’s confidence alive.
“She is so amazing, and I think if anyone is deserving of this award, it is Miss Mayne.
“She is so professional at what she does, and everyone gets to love performing arts because of the productions that she does.
“I’m forever grateful to be taught by Miss Mayne.”
Annabelle, aged 17, said: “It’s thanks to Miss Mayne that I’m going to carry on performing arts next year, and for the next three years.
“She’s given us all incredible opportunities to go on stage, and her support is incredible; we’re all very grateful for her.”
Ella, aged 18, added: “Miss Mayne is incredible.
“Her passion for musical theatre is amazing.
“I’ve been in musical theatre since the age of three, and I don’t think I’ve met someone with as much passion and as much love and support to give to other people as she has.
“She is absolutely deserving of this award."
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