Krysia Butwilowska MBE has dedicated more than 50 years to education and continues to play an important role at Thinking Schools Academy Trust, helping to shape decisions that benefit more than 17,500 pupils and 2,500 staff. Jennifer Coates, Head of Governance at Thinking Schools Academy Trust, said: “We are absolutely delighted to see Krysia’s extraordinary contribution to education recognised in this way. Her wisdom, integrity and commitment to improving the life chances of young people make her an invaluable member of our Board. “Krysia brings a wealth of experience and a deep sense of purpose to every discussion, and her influence is felt right across Thinking Schools Academy Trust. She is also incredibly generous in sharing her knowledge and expertise with fellow governors and staff – most notably supporting the delivery of training across the trust, where her insight on suspensions and exclusion panels was hugely valued and warmly received. “This honour is well deserved, and we are incredibly proud to work alongside her.”
Krysia began her teaching career in 1968 and went on to become a highly respected headteacher, leading schools across the country and improving outcomes in challenging environments. Her nomination recognises her as “an inspirational teacher… and a steadfast advocate of children’s education in the UK.” Reflecting on the honour, Krysia said: “To receive a senior award like the MBE is both an honour and a privilege… This award is a recognition of my passion and commitment to liberate children’s ability to help them achieve and dare to dream. It is also a recognition of the support of fellow practitioners working as a team towards a common vision and purpose.
“The governance structure at Thinking Schools Academy Trust is supported by a clear focus on teaching and learning using a variety of innovative strategies and pathways, particularly impressive is the practice of metacognition and adaptive teaching. Governors follow structured guidelines on conduct of meetings and reporting to help to ensure a uniformity and consistency of practice. The focus is predominantly on learning outcomes and supported by data.”
Krysia's career includes successfully leading a secondary school in Portsmouth out of special measures, before it was named one of the most improved schools in the country. Her contribution continues through her governance work at Thinking Schools Academy Trust, where she champions high-quality teaching, strong leadership and evidence-based decision making. Everyone at Thinking Schools Academy Trust extends their warmest congratulations to Krysia on this well-deserved honour.
Photo credit: Portsmouth High School for Girls