Executive Principal Wins Prestigious National Award

Trudy Spillane, Executive Principal of Drapers’ Maylands Primary School and Drapers’ Pyrgo Priory School has been recognised with a Silver Award for ‘Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School’ in this year's Pearson National Teaching Awards. Chosen from thousands of nominees, she will now be in with the chance of winning the highly desired Gold Award, which will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony in London and on BBC One’s The One Show later this year.  

Ms Spillane is one of six deserving Headteachers in the UK recognised as a silver winner in this category for the lasting impact they have on shaping the lives of young people.  

Ms Spillane founded Maylands in 2015 with just 17 pupils, establishing a bold, child-centred philosophy rooted in the approaches of Reggio Emilia, Forest School and Thrive — well ahead of national trends. From the beginning, her vision was clear: to create a school where emotional wellbeing and academic excellence are not competing aims, but inseparable.

Under her dynamic leadership, Drapers’ Maylands has earned Thrive School of Excellence status and the Learning Outside the Classroom Gold Mark. Ms Spillane leads with compassion, clarity and ambition — nurturing staff, growing confident leaders and enabling them to support the wider education community. Trudy’s leadership continues to shape the future of education, inspiring change and fostering excellence at every level.

Trudy Spillane says: “I am deeply honoured to receive the Silver Award for Pearson’s ‘Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School’. This recognition is not just a personal milestone, but a reflection of the incredible work being done across Drapers’ Maylands and Drapers’ Pyrgo every single day. I am privileged to lead a dedicated team of educators and support staff who consistently go above and beyond to ensure our pupils feel safe, seen, valued, and inspired to achieve their best. I’m proud to lead a team so dedicated to making a difference”

Sir Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children’s Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, says: “The dedication and impact of those involved in educating young people is truly remarkable. Their influence extends well beyond the classroom - offering encouragement, inspiration, and unwavering support that can shape lives for years to come.

"I’m also delighted to be able to congratulate this year’s Silver Award winners. Your passion and commitment to shaping the next generation is extraordinary. Thank you for the difference you make every single day." 

Sharon Hague, CEO of Pearson UK, says: “Every day, educators across the UK go above and beyond to inspire, support, and shape the future generation. Today, we proudly recognise those making an extraordinary impact. Our Silver Award winners represent the very best of the profession, and we’re thrilled to celebrate their dedication and achievements. Congratulations to all of this year’s Silver winners!”