Sheila Howarth is one of our amazing Trustees—and a true force for good in Leeds. After 25 years of dedicated service, she’s retiring from Leeds City Academy, where she changed countless lives through her support, honesty and fierce belief in young people.
One former student said it best:
“I was always in trouble—detention, isolation, nearly excluded—but Mrs Howarth never gave up on me. She fought for me and fought with me. Even now, years after I left, she’s still opening doors for me. I wouldn’t be where I am without her.”
That’s who Sheila is. A second mum. A champion. A mentor. A relentless advocate for the next generation.
As well as her work in education, Sheila has been Front of House Manager at Leeds Playhouse for over 30 years—welcoming audiences with warmth, care and that unmistakable Sheila sparkle.
Beyond the school gates and theatre walls, she’s just as inspiring. Sheila works tirelessly in her Chapeltown community—leading, uplifting, and creating spaces for young people to shine. She founded the UK’s first Young Reggae Choir, who had the incredible honour of performing at King Charles’ Coronation Concert. And every summer, she hand-makes dazzling carnival costumes for Unity Carnival Arts—a vibrant children’s troupe she leads with pride and purpose.
This year’s theme is “Wings of Peace”—a beautiful celebration of hope, freedom and togetherness. With shimmering feathers, radiant colours and joyful energy, Unity Carnival Arts is a living reflection of everything Sheila stands for: unity, creativity and lifting others up.
Her creativity, kindness and commitment ripple through everything she touches. And if you’ve heard the name Carmen—Sheila’s gifted granddaughter with a voice beyond her years—you’ll know Sheila’s legacy is already being carried forward.
From classrooms to carnival routes, from choir rehearsals to theatre foyers, Sheila is the heart and soul of so many good things. We’re endlessly grateful for her wisdom, her humour, and her huge, generous heart.
She’s one in a million—and we’re so lucky she’s one of ours.
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Left to right:
Sheila Howarth.
A plaque in Sheila’s honour.
Sheila with her brother Raymond who’s also retiring from his job at Leeds City Academy after 23 years service (and has been honoured with a plaque in his name also).