Yvonne Powell, Principal of Walworth Academy, was recently recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.
Ms Powell, former headteacher of Little Ilford School, was awarded an OBE for services to education. Ms Powell moved to Walworth Academy, part of the ARK Schools network, in 2012 after nine years at Little Ilford School in Newham where she led the school from Satisfactory to Outstanding.
“I am shocked but thrilled,” said Ms Powell. “All that teachers and leaders do is to work for the benefit of our students so that we provide them with the best opportunities to achieve high grades and essential values.
“At Little Ilford and Walworth we have had a ‘no excuses’ attitude. I have and continue to work with some amazing colleagues, all driven with the same passion and drive and it is most definitely a shared honour to work with such inspiring staff.”
Staff, students and parents welcomed the news. "We are all really proud of Ms Powell's award and appreciate the difference she is making to us all at Walworth Academy,” said Darrieal, year 10.
Mrs Lowney, the parent of a Walworth student, said “that’s amazing news we cannot wait to see what else she will do at Walworth Academy”
"I am delighted that Yvonne has been recognised in this way,” said Anthony Williams, Chair of Governors at Walworth Academy. “She achieved great things at Little Illford School, and continues to do so at Walworth Academy. She is an inspirational Principal and this award is thoroughly well deserved.