A TEACHER who went the extra mile to support students in the wellbeing and education in the Covid lockdowns has been handed a national award.

The Jack Petchey’s Lockdown School Heroes recognise school and college staff members who put in the extra effort to support and motivate students during the coronavirus pandemic.

Eleana Clark, a PE and maths teacher at the King Harold Academy, Epping Forest, has been named as one of this year’s winners.

Miss Clark was nominated by a student at King Harold Academy for her supportive and empathetic approach to teaching.

Students and staff said Miss Clark created enjoyable and informative classes online throughout the lockdown, but was also praised in her nomination for her response when students returned to school; she understood that many students found it hard to work at home and worked hard to help them catch up.

She also worked to aid the wellbeing of her students during lockdown. She would call regularly call to check up on her students and their mental health.

The students and academy staff also said Miss Clark had a sensitive approach and did not push students when they didn’t want to talk, but instead waited until they were ready to open up. Miss Clark would then give advice or signpost them to appropriate help.

The student who nominated Miss Clark said: “If it wasn’t for her I wouldn’t have got the help I needed.”

Upon receiving the award, Miss Clark said: “Thank you to the Jack Petchey Foundation for this amazing award. It means so much because a student has gone out of their way to nominate me. I will truly treasure this award.”

Miss Clark was awarded a certificate from the foundation, a letter from Sir Jack and a special face mask to congratulate her on going the extra mile to help students in the lockdown.

Trudy Kilcullen MBE, chief executive of the Jack Petchey Foundation, said: “At the Jack Petchey Foundation, we think all school staff have done an exceptional job during this challenging year to support, engage and motivate young people – both remotely and in schools and colleges.

“We want to recognise those members of staff that have gone the extra mile to help young people thrive, and to give the opportunity for students across London and Essex to nominate those adults that have particularly supported them this year.”

The Jack Petchey Foundation works with schools and youth groups across Epping Forest and has provided £1,187,523.27 in funding to schools and youth clubs in the area.