By Kelly Eve Education reporter

Published at 10:37, Friday, 23 December 2011

CUMBRIA’S youngest pantomime director this Christmas has picked up his school’s top honour.

Cup king: Dan Walters was presented with the headteacher’s award at Newman School’s annual prize-giving ceremony

Carlisle sixth former Daniel Walters was presented with the headteacher’s award at Newman School’s annual prize-giving ceremony at the end of term.

The award is given to the student who has shown great commitment to the school and the wider community.

It caps a tremendous festive season for 18-year-old Daniel, who recently directed the successful production of Puss in Boots at West Walls Theatre.

Headteacher John McAuley described Daniel, who is also a talented actor, as “a student who has many talents but who shows great modesty”.

Mr McAuley said: “When Daniel joined Newman it was obvious that he had a passion for creative and theatre work. He took the lead role in the school’s production of Oliver! working with a large cast and crew. He quickly became an invaluable asset to the media and drama department, always available to support whole school events and productions.

“When Daniel was in Year 10 he organised his own work experience and, keen to gain theatrical knowledge, he aimed high and spent a week at the Prince of Wales Theatre in London working with the production of Mamma Mia!.

“You never have to ask Daniel to help; he steps forward with his own ideas and volunteers his time and expertise.”

Year 13 student Daniel has recently been working behind the scenes to help upgrade the school’s stage lighting. He asked for donations from his panto audiences at West Walls.

Mr McAuley said: “Daniel will be missed when he leaves us at the end of year 13; however, he is passing on his knowledge of stage lighting to some of our year 10 students.”

Daniel was among scores of pupils recognised by the school for their achievements during the 2010/11 academic year.

Not only were children in each year group recognised for academic success, prizes were given too for effort, community input and exam success. Tutors also nominated award winners.

Prizes were presented by Julie Clayton from BBC Radio Cumbria.

Local firms and individuals which supported Newman School’s ceremony included The Lanes shopping centre, Lambert-Gill Ltd, Twoey Toys, Gen II, the Sands Centre and former deputy head Gerald Richardson.

Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk