AN INSPIRATIONAL dance teacher who had open heart surgery as a teenager is celebrating graduation and award success.

Natasha Wyatt, from Kingsmead, has not only graduated with a HND in performing arts from Warrington and Vale Royal College, she’s also received the college’s Future Leader Award.

Natasha was born with a rare congenital heart condition, which saw her undergo surgery aged three-and-a-half weeks, again when she was eight and then in August 2013, when she was just 15.

The condition meant that when she was born her heart was missing a valve and a tube, which must be replaced as she grows. But Natasha has never let her health issues stop her from pursuing her dreams.

The former Hartford CE High School pupil said: “I’ve always wanted to teach dance. My high school dance teacher Mrs Harris was such a positive influence on me and I remember once saying to her that I wanted to do her job when I grew up.”

Ben Brady, curriculum manager for art, design, fashion and textiles at Warrington and Vale Royal College nominated Natasha for the award, which was sponsored by Warrington’s Own Buses and includes a trophy and £150.

He said: “Natasha was an outstanding student and a role model to her peers.

“Not only did she display excellence in her performing arts and dance skills, but acted as a mentor to the other dance students.

“Throughout her time at college Natasha has battled with a serious illness, which has prevented her from becoming a professional performer, however she has never allowed this to hold her back and has always strived to achieve to the best of her abilities.”

Although the 20-year-old dancer and choreographer was unable to attend her graduation ceremony, which took place at St Elphin’s Church in Warrington earlier this month, she told the Guardian that she was ‘amazed’ to have been nominated for the award.

She said: “It’s such a surprise, but I am so very happy – it’s amazing.

“I loved the course and it’s lovely to think that all those extra things I did at college have been recognised.”

News of the award came in the same week that Natasha learned she had gained just one of two direct study teacher training places which she will embark upon in September 2019.

She said: “I’m amazed, it’s been a great week for good news! I’m very excited about what the future holds.”