Celebrating North East educators in the New Year Honours List
Nothing says ‘Happy New Year’ quite like recognising the dedication and brilliance of our community’s educators. So that’s exactly what we’ll do.
On 29 December, the New Year Honours List for 2026 was revealed, recognising the achievements and service of extraordinary people across the UK.
Unsurprisingly, six of the North East’s very own education professionals made it onto this prestigious list, offering a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the dedication, leadership and impact of those who help shape the lives of young people, and strengthen communities across our region.
Shining a spotlight on excellence in education
Inclusion in the New Year Honours List reflects years of commitment, professionalism and care across various sectors, exemplifying the very best of public service.
In the case of education, the achievements of those listed help highlight the vital role schools and educators play not only in academic outcomes, but in supporting wellbeing, opportunity and aspiration for children and young people.
Proud to represent the North East
It gives us great pleasure when our community’s educators are recognised on any national stage, but there’s a particular kind of honour in being highlighted on the New Year Honours List.
Many congratulations to:
- Anita Bath OBE, Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust
- Carolyn Morgan OBE, Ascent Academies’ Trust
- Paul Rickeard OBE, Durham And Newcastle Diocesan Learning Trust
- Brendan Tapping OBE, Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust
- Andrea English MBE, North and South West Durham Learning Federation
- Karen Ratcliffe MBE, Harton Primary School
Moments of national recognition like this offer a valuable opportunity to pause and reflect on the impact of education across our region. These honours also serve as an important reminder of the strength, expertise and ambition that exists right here within the North East education system.
We are proud to see educators from our region receiving prestigious national recognition and ensuring that the voices, values and experiences of the North East are represented at the highest level.
Their success reflects the collective effort of school communities, colleagues and partners who work together every day to support young people.
Congratulations to our honoured educators
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “Recognition like this matters because it shines a light on the everyday work in schools that so often goes unseen. Behind every honour is a commitment to children, families and communities, and a belief in the power of education to change lives.
“We hope these achievements inspire others across the North East to feel proud of the profession and confident in the difference they make.”
The entire Schools North East team extend our warmest congratulations to all those recognised in the New Year Honours List. Your achievements are a source of pride for your schools, your communities and the wider education sector across the North East.