Beckfoot Trust are absolutely delighted that Michelle Blanchard, Beckfoot Allerton Headteacher, has received her MBE for services to education. She attended Buckingham Palace this week and was presented her medal by Princess Anne.

Michelle was the founding Principal of Dixons Music Primary, leading it to an outstanding judgement in 2016.  Under her leadership the school secured fantastic outcomes in the 2018 SATs.  As well as being a great Headteacher, Michelle has contributed significantly to the work of the EEF by co-authoring the improving behaviour in schools guidance report.  She has subsequently continued to work with the Department for Education as part of their behaviour hub, supporting many leaders in crafting great cultures with explicit norms where teachers can teach and young people can learn.  During the pandemic, she also supported Early Career Teachers through delivering webinars. 

Michelle leads with humility and compassion, yet without ever compromising her exactingly high standards, which are driven by her passion for making a difference to the lives of the children and the communities that she serves.  Michelle’s natural inclination is to work hard and avoid the limelight.

This award is symbolic for values-driven female leaders everywhere and is also great recognition for Bradford, as such, it is only right that we celebrate with and for her. 

As her CEO, I am quite simply very proud of her and I know that her team, the children and the community at Beckfoot Allerton will be too.      

Shirley Watson

CEO, Beckfoot Trust

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