MBE astounds headmistress

11:16am Wednesday 18th June 2008

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A HEADMISTRESS is 'absolutely astounded' at being awarded an MBE for her work in education.

Anita Cook has been head at Bedwas High School for 11 years and has worked at the school 36 years. She is now in her final year at the school after giving her life to Bedwas.

But Anita said: "I think this award is not just for me at all. It is for all the school, pupils and staff.

"I am absolutely astounded and overwhelmed to receive this honour. I am also extremely moved by the fact that friends, colleagues and members of the local community made and supported the nomination in the first place. I am, quite frankly, amazed and I really cannot believe it!

"I have absolutely loved my time at Bedwas High School and, quite honestly that, in itself, has been reward enough for me."

She joined the school in 1972 as a young, Biology teacher and over the past 36 years she has held a variety of posts - Head of Department, Head of Year, Head of Lower School, Deputy Headteacher and for the last 11 years, the Headteacher.

The long serving head said: "I have spent my entire teaching career - 36 years - at Bedwas High School and I openly admit that the school has been a major part of my life. I am extremely and quite rightly very proud of the school, its young people, the staff and the local community of which our school is very much a part.

"The pinnacle of my time here was our last inspection when we earned five grade ones and two grade twos in the report. This was entirely down to the outstanding work and commitment of the staff and governors, the tremendous support of parents, Caerphilly LEA and our many partners in the community.

"Obviously, I have seen many changes over the years. "Many staff and, indeed pupils, have come and gone but I can say, with total conviction and honesty that I have worked with some of the very best teachers and support staff in the profession.

"Most importantly of all, I have been extremely privileged to work with and support so many wonderful young people who have attended our school. Although I hate to admit it, a good number of the pupils who currently attend Bedwas are actually children and indeed grandchildren of many of my former pupils!"

There is no doubt at all that Bedwas High School has gone from strength to strength over the past decade when Anita Cook was at the helm.

And the when the new head takes control of the school they will have a well run successful educational establishment to take over.