ITV's gripping drama The Teacher, starring the acclaimed Sheridan Smith, has captivated audiences with its raw and emotional storyline. But the show's powerful atmosphere is as much a product of its setting as its stellar performances. The production chose the heart of West Yorkshire to bring this harrowing tale to life.
The series was filmed predominantly in and around the town of Keighley, with its gritty urban landscape providing the perfect backdrop for the story of a schoolteacher accused of a shocking crime. The iconic Eastwood Lane, a staple of Northern England's architectural heritage, features prominently, setting the tone for the entire show.
The Heart of the Drama: The School Itself
The central location, the school where Sheridan Smith's character, Jenna, works, is not a purpose-built set. Producers utilised the formidable and imposing structure of the former St. Augustine's Catholic Secondary School in Bradford. The empty corridors and classrooms of this decommissioned building added an authentic and eerily perfect feel for the intense drama that unfolds within its walls.
Beyond the School Gates
Filming wasn't confined to the abandoned school. The production team took to the streets of West Yorkshire to capture the essence of Jenna's world. Key scenes were shot on location in the nearby towns of Halifax and Huddersfield, whose distinct Northern character bleeds into every frame, grounding the story in a palpable reality.
This careful selection of real Northern locations, from the grand, disused school to the everyday streets, is a masterstroke in authenticity. It allows viewers to fully immerse themselves in Jenna's devastating ordeal, making The Teacher not just a drama to watch, but a world to step into.
