Nelly Weston from The Pauline Quirke Academy in Bristol has been recognised for her dedication and creativity in teaching young performers.

Nelly Weston, a Poppets Teacher from The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts in Bristol has been awarded the prestigious Inspirational Poppets Teacher Award, which recognises teachers who bring passion, creativity, and joy to PQA’s youngest, aged between four to six years old.

She was chosen from over 1,200 PQA teachers nationwide as part of the annual celebration, which recognises excellence, creativity, and dedication to young people.

Nelly joined the academy 18 months ago and has since created a safe, exciting and magical space for the youngest performers.

With her background in playwriting and storytelling, she builds imaginative, age-appropriate worlds that spark curiosity and bring the group together.

Carly Bond, Principal of PQA Bristol, said: “I’m so proud of Nelly for receiving the Inspirational Poppets Teacher Award. At PQA Bristol, she brings such kindness, energy, and creativity to everything she does.

“The students absolutely adore her, and it’s easy to see why - she makes every class feel special and every child feel seen. This award couldn’t be more deserved, and we’re so lucky to have her as part of our PQA Bristol family.”

Nelly added: “It’s an honour to receive this award - teaching the Poppets is a true highlight of my week and watching each of them grow in confidence, and their little personalities begin to flourish, is a privilege; I’m very proud to be part of that journey for them. Thank you very much!”

Nelly Weston, a Poppets Teacher from The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts in Bristol has been awarded the prestigious Inspirational Poppets Teacher Award, which recognises teachers who bring passion, creativity, and joy to PQA’s youngest, aged between four to six years old. She was chosen from over 1,200 PQA teachers nationwide as part of the annual celebration, which recognises excellence, creativity, and dedication to young people. | PQA

placeholder image — Nelly Weston, a Poppets Teacher from The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts in Bristol has been awarded the prestigious Inspirational Poppets Teacher Award, which recognises teachers who bring passion, creativity, and joy to PQA’s youngest, aged between four to six years old. She was chosen from over 1,200 PQA teachers nationwide as part of the annual celebration, which recognises excellence, creativity, and dedication to young people. | PQA

Her sessions are rooted in kindness and empathy, meeting each child where they are and gently encouraging them to take the next step, whether that’s speaking up, dancing freely or simply joining in for the first time. Nelly prioritises her students’ joy and confidence over rigid lesson plans, ensuring every child feels supported and seen.

Nelly also works as a teaching assistant and cover teacher in the Main Academies, where her caring, patient nature continues to make a positive impact across the entire PQA Bristol community.

The The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts in Bristol team are dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive space where young people are encouraged to be themselves and shine whilst learning the latest techniques in performing arts. Performing arts isn’t just about singing and dancing, there are also opportunities for all young people to explore comedy, story writing, TV and filmmaking.

For those interested in booking a free session at PQA Bristol or PQA Bristol Long Ashton please visit www.pqacademy.com/academies/bristol or https://www.pqacademy.com/academies/bristol-long-ashton/.