Andrea Silvain, principal of School 360 in Stratford, East London, has been named the Silver Award winner for Head teacher of the Year (Primary) at the 2026 Pearson National Teaching Awards. The award was announced on National Thank a Teacher Day (June 17), recognizing her exceptional leadership and impact since the school opened in 2021.
From building site to thriving school
School 360, located on Sugar House Island, started with a single Reception class in 2021 and has grown to 210 pupils, with capacity for 420. Despite falling pupil numbers across London, the school is oversubscribed, with parents traveling from nearby boroughs such as Waltham Forest, Tower Hamlets, and Hackney. Ofsted rated the school 'Good with Outstanding areas.'
Silvain, known as Andi by students and parents, said: "None of us gets into teaching for recognition, so when you do get it, it means so much. You do things, and you don't even think the children notice, but when they say they remember me joining in lessons or comforting them when they're sad."
Community at the core
Silvain grew up in East London and has taught in the area for 20 years. Her approach emphasizes creativity, inclusion, and real-world learning. She added: "The impacts all over London of people moving out of the area, the cost of living crisis, the falling number of people in schools, we are actually oversubscribed. Parents are very active in promoting the school, and they know we are doing it together."
Parent Will highlighted the school's diversity: "The integration of diverse backgrounds and faiths is also a massive strength." Another parent, Anna, said Silvain's commitment helped her son transition from an unhappy experience at another school: "Andi was a big part of our choice. She invested time in my son... he is now a confident, happy student."
Impact beyond the classroom
At the community event, students expressed their appreciation. Peggy, a pupil, said: "Dear Andi, you are a kind, happy and wonderful head teacher who makes us all feel safe." Isy, a Year 3 student, said Andi makes her 'feel safe and happy with everything, even outside of school.'
Silvain reflected: "I never even thought I'd make it to be a head teacher, let alone win an award like this. I was blown away and overwhelmed." She credited the school's play-based approach for fostering academic and social success: "It makes me happy to see our children performing so well academically and socially, emotionally, and creatively."
