Killian Monson was chosen from more than 1,200 teachers nationwide
An inspiring Hull teacher transforming young lives through filmmaking has been honoured with a national award. Killian Monson is a film and television teacher at the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA) in the city.
The Academy held its annual national awards and Killian was selected from more than 1,200 PQA teachers nationwide to win Most Inspirational Teacher for Film & Television. It recognises a teacher’s creativity and storytelling in inspiring young people.
PQA Hull is based at Tranby, Anlaby, and in the two years he has been teaching there, Killian is said to have made “exceptional impact”. Described as a “dedicated and visionary teacher”, Killian is said to inspire young filmmakers to tell their stories through the lens, helping them develop technical skills, confidence, and a creative voice.
James Aconley, principal at PQA Hull, said: “Killian deserves to be celebrated for all he gives to his students, his academy, and the art of storytelling. He doesn’t just teach film, he inspires future filmmakers.”
Nat Aconley, vice-principal, said: “Killian’s creativity and commitment are remarkable. He’s an inspiration to both students and staff, and his ability to connect, motivate, and empower young filmmakers truly sets him apart.”
Killian’s passion and resilience are well known among local parents and students. Most notably, he led two full cinema screenings just one week after the birth of his baby, a testament to his extraordinary dedication, said PQA Hull.
Killian said: “I’m honoured to receive this award. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our young filmmakers’ ideas come to life on screen. Their creativity and hard work inspire me every week.”
The PQA Hull team are dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive space where young people are encouraged to be themselves and shine while learning the latest techniques in performing arts. Killian’s success highlights the exciting breadth of opportunities available at PQA Hull, where students go beyond singing and dancing to explore filmmaking, storytelling, screen production and comedy, developing real-world creative skills that will stay with them for life.
Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts is a family-owned nationwide performing arts academy for children aged four to 18. It offers training in comedy, drama, musical theatre, TV and filmmaking, focusing on nurturing individual talent and building self-belief. There are now more than 250 academies nationwide, teaching young people technical performing arts skills and life skills.
A professional talent agency for PQA students, Quirky Kidz, launched in 2009 to help students develop a performing arts career while safeguarding welfare. For those interested in booking a free session at PQA Hull, please visit pqacademy.com/academies/hull/