Students in Billericay are being taught by one of the best secondary school teachers in the country. James Tuck has been named as a Silver Winner in the Pearson National Teaching Awards as Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School 2026. Announced on National Thank A Teacher Day, the awards shine a light on the teaching profession, ensuring its impact is recognised and valued across the UK.
Award-Winning Music Educator
Mr Tuck, head of music at Mayflower High School in Billericay, is now in the running to be named overall Gold Winner later this year. As well as heading up the music department at the school, Mr Tuck also works with music technology company Ableton as a certified trainer and curriculum developer. He creates free resources to support teachers and young people wanting to make music, with his programmes taught to students around the world. He has created a curriculum focusing on vocal work, whole-class ensemble performances and using music technology for live performances and production.
Further School Recognitions
Alongside Mr Tuck, the school is also celebrating Vivienne Clark, who has been awarded Certificate of Achievement status by judges in the Award for Teaching Assistant of the Year category; Anne Walter, Highly Commended for the Unsung Hero award for her work with Duke of Edinburgh, and the school's Dyslexia Centre, which received the Certificate of Achievement for SEND and Inclusive Practice.
Headteacher's Pride
Headteacher Damian Lee said: "I am incredibly proud that the dedication and talent of our staff have been recognised through the National Teaching Awards. To have a colleague named a Silver Winner for Secondary Teacher of the Year, with the possibility of being announced as the overall Gold Winner in November, is a tremendous achievement. I am equally delighted that another colleague has been recognised as an Unsung Hero for their outstanding commitment to the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, and that our Dyslexia Centre team have received a Certificate of Achievement for SEND and Inclusive Practice. These accolades reflect the expertise and commitment our staff demonstrate every day, as well as the positive impact they have on the lives of our students. The recognition is thoroughly deserved, and the entire school community is delighted to celebrate their success."
Written by Kelly Clark. Location: Billericay in Essex.
