Buckinghamshire Council colleague honoured with MBE for inspiring career and impactful work

Congratulations to Yvette Thomas, who has recently been honoured with an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire). This prestigious award is the third highest-ranking Order of the British Empire, following the CBE and OBE. Yvette shared with us her inspiring career journey and the impactful work she has done, which ultimately led to her nomination…

Tell us about your career journey at Buckinghamshire Council…

In September 2002, I embarked on my journey in Bucks, taking on the role of Head of the Minority Ethnic and Traveller Achievement Service and Diversity Advisor. This was my first position, and over the years, I have seen various iterations of this role, including Head of Equalities and Diversity Advisor for Children’s Services. This continued until September 2019, when I was invited to interview for the School Improvement Manager role, a position I successfully secured.

Since then, I have been serving as the School Improvement Manager. Initially, I started as the Equalities and School Improvement Manager, but my role has since evolved to become the School Improvement and Traded Delivery Manager. This new title more accurately reflects the work I am currently doing. Although equalities has been a significant part of my life in Bucks from the beginning, it is no longer the main focus of my role. However, I still engage in a lot of work related to equalities.

In addition to my primary responsibilities, I have also been the Prevent Lead in Bucks for a long time. Recently, I have started to transition out of this role as we now have someone in the safeguarding team who will be taking the lead on Prevent. Despite the changes in job titles and descriptions, I have continued to carry on my work, ensuring that the essence of my contributions remains intact.

My journey in Bucks has been one of evolution and commitment, adapting to new roles and responsibilities while staying true to my core values and dedication to equality and improvement.

Tell us about what your role involves…

The School Improvement Service is dedicated to supporting all schools in Bucks to raise standards for children and young people. We have a specific statutory role with maintained schools, and with academies, we tend to be only involved in safeguarding and Special Education and mainstream SEND issues. I lead a group of advisors, all of whom are ex-headteachers. Alongside a group of outstanding headteachers in Bucks who work with us, we commission and manage support for any school that requires it through specific visits.

In addition to our core services, we have a trading arm. Enhanced schools, ‘good’ and ‘outstanding’ schools, and academies can purchase additional support from our service. We also handle all Ofsted complaints and run a major project called the Challenge Programme, which focuses on underachieving vulnerable groups, particularly in the Opportunity Bucks wards.

Our commitment to excellence remains unwavering as we continue to adapt and provide the necessary support to ensure that every child in Bucks receives the best possible education.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Supporting new heads and headteachers to excel in their roles is incredibly rewarding. Witnessing that light bulb moment, especially in challenging circumstances, when they gain clarity and align with the school improvement team, is truly fulfilling. It’s these moments of realisation and progress that make the effort worthwhile.

A special part of my work involves some pet projects that I hold dear. One such project is the Model United Nations. There’s no greater buzz than seeing senior year nine students debating critical topics like the proliferation of arms in a UN-style assembly. The energy and engagement in these debates are unmatched, and it’s a joy to witness.

Another project close to my heart is the Linking Network Project, which I run every year. This initiative brings together young people, mainly primary children, but also includes special and mainstream secondary schools. When students from different backgrounds come together, they realise how much they have in common despite their differences. Friendships are formed, and bonds are built, creating special moments that highlight the essence of unity and understanding.

There is so much in my job that is rewarding, from supporting new leaders to fostering connections among young people. These experiences and projects make my work truly meaningful and impactful.

Congratulations on receiving an MBE! How did it feel when you found out?

Receiving an MBE was completely out of the blue. I had no clue that I’d been nominated until I got the formal letter from the Cabinet Office. At first, I thought it was a hoax. The whole experience has been humbling in many ways because I’m simply doing what I love.

I didn’t come into education for money, and it’s proven to not be a money-making profession. I entered this field because I’m passionate about social justice and ensuring that all children are given opportunities to achieve. The MBE feels like a validation of that passion and drive. It has given me a sense of achievement and recognition, which is a special feeling.

Sometimes people question your motives for doing things, and it’s never for the reward per se, but for those light bulb moments. The MBE feels like someone saying that everything I do has been valuable and deserves recognition. I’m humbled by it and incredibly proud.