Educationalist presented with OBE

Sunday 17 July 2022

Clare Sealy, Guernsey's Head of Education Improvement, was presented with the OBE at Government House on Saturday.

Ms Sealy was described as "an extraordinary voice in contemporary education" when she was awarded the OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List for services to education.

An OBE investiture usually takes place at Buckingham Palace. Ms Sealy was unable to attend a ceremony at the Palace and opted instead for her award to be presented by the Lieutenant Governor, Lieutenant General Richard Cripwell, in front of more than 30 friends, colleagues and family.

"It's such an honour to receive this award," said Ms Sealy.

"There are so many people in so many fields that do excellent work, so it is humbling to be singled out for recognition.

"Success in any field is always dependent on team work. Any success I have had is because I had colleagues and family supporting me and peers inspiring me."

Pictured: Clare Sealy, flanked by her husband and mother, celebrated being awarded the OBE in a ceremony at Government House on Saturday. Credit for images: Government House. 

Ms Sealy worked in the UK before being appointed to a senior role at the Education Office in 2019, including to lead the development of the primary schools' curriculum.  

She was headteacher of a primary school in Tower Hamlets in London for 22 years, during which time she became an increasingly prominent and influential voice in education nationally. 

In particular, she developed an interest in the application of cognitive science and phonics in the primary and early years phases of education and how they can influence long-term learning through design of the curriculum.

She was an advisor to the Department for Education in the UK. In 2018, the Times Education Supplement (TES) named her as one of the 10 most influential people in the world of education.

Pictured: Clare Sealy making a short speech after being presented with the OBE, during which she thanked current and former colleagues, who she said made it possible for her to develop her interest in cognitive science and the curriculum. 

The Lieutenant Governor said that Ms Sealy's "work in the field of education is truly groung-breaking".

"As one of the most influential writers and commentators on the primary curriculum, she is inspiring teachers and improving outcomes for children of all backgrounds throughout Britain and beyond. That really is something to celebrate," he said.

"It is very unusual for an OBE investiture to take place outside of the Palace, so it was a particular privilege to present this award on behalf of Her Majesty today."

Thank you for making us all feel so welcome and hosting such a lovely occasion.

— Clare Sealy (@ClareSealy) July 17, 2022