Jashu Vekaria, Deputy Headteacher at Uxendon Manor Primary has been awarded an MBE by Prince Charles on Thursday 4th April 2019. She received the accolade in the New Year's Honours List for her contribution to primary education, as
To celebrate her achievement, the school held a British values week on Wednesday 3rd April. The whole school was involved in dressing up as king or queen, learning the national anthem and practising how to curtsy, making sandwiches and scones for an afternoon tea, and a week of British menus for the children's lunches. The children played music on the mandolins, performed a Bollywood dance and the choir sang her favourite songs during assembly.
Jashu herself designed a commemorative mug and personally signed them to mark the occasion, which was distributed to the children and staff of the school. The idea came from staff led by English leader, Nasima Morshed, who master minded the whole event and organised it at a short notice.
Jashu Vekaria joined Uxendon Manor in 2010 as an advanced skills teacher. Since then her career has grown from strength to strength. She was the Gold winner of the Pearsons Teaching awards in 2016.
Speaking to Asian Voice, Jashu said, “At first I thought it was a joke and didn’t take it seriously, however as time passed I realised it was all too real! Especially on 28th December when the New Year’s Honours list was published. So many well-wishers started pouring in their congratulations... To be honest, it felt surreal.
“I feel truly humbled and honoured to receive such a prestigious award. I whole heartedly believe this award is for teachers everywhere. Finally educators are being acknowledged for their hard work and commitment for the future generation. I thank my lucky stars to have found a job I adore!”
Jon Parry, Headteacher, of the School said, “Jashu is an exceptional teacher and a fantastic Deputy Head who always puts the children first. She has made a tremendous impact on our Uxendon Manor community. We feel Jashu thoroughly deserves this national recognition for all the excellent work she has done. We are all very proud of her.”
One of the proud parents said how Jashu treated children individually and saluting her contribution said, “At the centre of every decision Jashu makes are the children themselves. She excels in what she does because she focuses on nurturing the whole child and addresses their emotional needs as well as their academic needs.”
