John Roan teacher is named newly qualified teacher of the year after raising cash for laptops during coronavirus crisis

A teacher who organised fundraising challenges to raise cash for laptops for students has won a national award bestowed by the academy trust which runs her school.

Eleanor Porter scooped the title of newly qualified teacher of the year for the impressive contribution she made at the John Roan School in Maze HIll, Greenwich.

In recent months, Elly has also spearheaded an inspiring fundraising campaign at the school, raising money to buy laptops for students to better facilitate their at-home learning.

With the support of the school’s PTA and match funding from United Learning, Elly helped to ensure more than 240 students were provided with laptops and could continue to make strong progress in their learning.

She also organised a successful mock general election for students as well as visits from several high-profile speakers.

She said: “When I started teaching I’d hoped but didn’t necessarily know if I’d fall in love with the classroom.

“It happened about three weeks into my first term: I was blown away by the raw brilliance of our students, the unique local community that surrounds us, and the diligence of the team, from the teachers to the support staff, who challenge and inspire on a daily basis.

“Through the unstinting encouragement and kindness of my colleagues, both within my department and wider, The John Roan School has helped me feel totally supported in taking on responsibility and in making a difference to our school. I am so excited to find out what my second year holds.”

Rita Stibbe, Elly’s mentor and a history teacher at The John Roan School, said: “Elly has made a truly outstanding start to her teaching career.

“Elly’s history teaching has developed at pace, with the high student attendance at her Year 10 after-school history club testament to her teaching skills and popularity.

“This national award is testament to the hard work and dedication she has shown thus far, and I have no doubt that she will only go from strength to strength.”

The awards recognise the impressive achievements of United Learning’s students and staff across the country.

“They include awards for academic excellence, extracurricular achievements and service to school communities.

“As well as showcasing the talents of the group’s students and staff, they also recognise some of the group’s most dedicated, hardworking and inspirational individuals.”

As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, this year’s awards ceremony took place virtually rather than as part of a live event.

Each winner was announced via a special video on Twitter, personalised to include a message of congratulations from their school’s head teacher, or the member of staff who nominated them.

Schools across the country, as well as family members and friends, were then able to share these moving and engaging videos, and join together in celebrating the winners from home.