THE former head teacher of a school in Warrington is set to be recognised for his services to education in The King’s New Years Honours List.
The King’s New Year’s Honours list has been announced yesterday, Monday, which will recognise community champions across the UK.
The list is compiled following recommendations from the prime minister, senior government ministers and members of the public.
The recipients include sporting legends, acting superstars and beloved authors, but many included on the list are not household names.
The honours are often handed out to people who have made a lifelong commitment and profound contribution to the community.
Paul Heitzman, who lives in Mold, was formerly the head teacher of St Gregory’s Catholic High School, on Cromwell Avenue in Great Sankey.
The 69-year-old is now based in Wales and has assisted schools in making remarkable progress.
He will receive the British Empire Medal (BEM) for his services to education.
“I’m very proud to receive this great honour,” he said.
“It’s a fitting tribute to all the brilliant people I worked with over the last 25 years of head teaching.
“I always relished the challenge of taking over the running of schools in difficulty.
“I had a lot of experience and always got a brilliant team of staff around me and we were able to have success in turning schools around.”
Paul is just one of many recognised for their work in the New Year’s Honours List, and is joined by Paralympic champions and acting superstars.
“Each and every day, ordinary people go out and do extraordinary things for their communities,” said Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
“They represent the very best of the UK and that core value of service which I put at the centre of everything this government does.
“The New Year Honours List celebrates more of these unsung heroes, and I thank them for their incredible contribution.”