Islanders in New Year Honours List

A deputy principal of the Isle of Wight College has been awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours List for services to further education and the community.

Lynne Christopher joined The Isle of Wight College in September 1988 as Head Librarian. After a number of successive promotions, and gaining an MBA, she was appointed Deputy Principal in 2010. She said: “I feel delighted and honoured to receive this award and I would like to pay tribute to the many, many colleagues alongside whom I have worked throughout my time at the college. Collectively we work very hard to provide the best possible learning experience for our students, whatever their age or ability. The dedication, support and inspiration provided by Isle of Wight College staff has ensured that our students receive a standard of education and training that is second to none and the many wonderful success stories that we hear about every year, from those who have studied with us, make all our efforts truly worthwhile.”

Lynne has an impressive record of achievement at the college. As head of quality in 2007, she led the college to achieve a Grade 1 ‘Outstanding’ rating in their Ofsted inspection. Since then, student success rates have improved year-on-year and the college remains a beacon of good practice in a challenging educational environment.

College principal, Debbie Lavin CBE, said: “After the toughest of years that we have all endured, it is wonderful to end 2020 with a celebration and there is no one more deserving of this award than Lynne Christopher. During her many years at the college, Lynne has developed a wealth of experience and skills, ensuring the college retains its reputation for being a world class facility and a respected community hub. The Isle of Wight College is the successful institution it is today thanks to Lynne’s tireless dedication and commitment.”

Laura Gaudion, Assistant Director of Adult Social Care at the Isle of Wight Council, will receive a BEM for services to social care during the Covid-19 response.
Actress Sheila Hancock, who was born on the Isle of Wight in 1933, is to be made a Dame for services to drama and to charity. In November 2012 she joined her friend Sandy Toksvig in an edition of the BBC series Celebrity Antiques Road Trip around the Island.