Helston Community College Wayne Jenkins retires: who is new head

Wayne decided to train as a teacher after graduating university and wanting to do something more challenging. Although he was shy, he stepped out of his comfort zone to become a teacher.

His first job was in Camborne, 32 years ago. After spending four years there, he then joined Helston School as a science teacher in 1997.

In 2002, Wayne became the head of science, and by 2007 he was deputy head teacher, working alongside head Pat McGovern.

Four years ago, Wayne then became the headteacher – something he had never expected to be. It hasn't been plain sailing since becoming a head, with the global pandemic and the North Site development interfering with day-to-day schooling, but overall all, Wayne feels they have managed both disturbances well.

Wayne, 58, told the Packet about all the incredible trips he has joined the pupils on. One he found most emotional was the trip to Auschwitz's concentration camps, and said it was a "life changing experience." They then went onto Berlin in Germany and he and the pupils have also visited New York and Iceland.

Wayne and Clair Day walking alongside the Children's Dance on Flora Day 2022

With his last day on Friday, Wayne has plans for his retirement, but admits he will miss the relationships he has formed with everyone from the pupils and staff to the caretakers, cleaning and kitchen staff, explaining: "Everyone is important."

He also feels that Helston College is a inclusive school and the pupils are supported.

Retirement plans for Wayne include booking a holiday to Madeira and spending some quality time with his two children who have just graduated from university. He will be working part time, teaching science and physics for A-level students, but at a different location.

Wayne will be missed by pupils and staff, and has received cards and a personalised rugby ball from his year groups this week.

Chris Martin (left) Wayne and Michelle Cornish (right). Photo: Kate Lockett

Chris Martin has worked alongside Wayne for 25 years and said: "Wayne is very influential, a wonderful headteacher. I will miss his sense of humor, his love of rugby and the banter."

Michelle Cornish worked as Wayne's PA for a few years and said: "I will miss him, he's unique and is caring in all aspects of the college and puts everyone first."

With Wayne's passion for physics and science he helped Michelle's son when he was a student there, and she added: "My son struggled with his science A-level, Wayne supported him and he ended up with fantastic results, so he could go to university."

Angela Atkinson, who joined the college in 2005, also worked with Wayne as his PA and she said: "I will miss his fantastic sense of humor, he's a genuinely likeable guy and he will be missed. He is so supportive of staff and is a unique leader."

In September Alex Lingard from Liskeard will be taking over as headteacher for the college.