This year’s King’s Birthday Honours List has shone a spotlight on the tireless dedication, creativity and impact of professionals working across the early years sector.
Published annually to mark the Sovereign’s official birthday, the Honours List recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to public life. Recipients are nominated by their peers and the public, with honours awarded across a range of orders and medals to acknowledge service to communities, industries and the nation as a whole.
In 2025, a number of much-loved and well-respected names from early education have been recognised - celebrating their work in championing high-quality practice, supporting families and improving outcomes for young children.
Those Recognised for Services to Early Years and Early Education Include:
Dr Alistair Bryce-Clegg, MBE
A familiar name in early education, Alistair is a consultant, author and co-founder of My First Five Years UK. His MBE recognises his national and international work supporting high-quality early years practice.
Lynn Blagg, MBE
Lynn led the SureStart Centre in Middlesbrough, supporting families through inclusive early years provision. She is honoured for her long-standing commitment to the community.
Angela Helen Mountain, MBE
Founder of several nurseries across Leeds, Angela is recognised for creating nurturing early years settings and championing childcare in local communities.
Jessica Prosser, MBE
An Early Years Learning Support Assistant at Tachbrook Nursery School in London, Jessica is celebrated for her day-to-day dedication to children and families.
Wendy Elizabeth Ross, MBE
As Lead Practitioner and Child Protection Coordinator at St Christopher’s Pre-School, Wendy is recognised for her safeguarding leadership and frontline support.
Catherine Greer Duru, BEM
Catherine, SENCO and Cover Teacher at Tachbrook Nursery School, receives the British Empire Medal for her work with children with special educational needs.
Pamela Duncan-Glancy, MBE
A Scottish Parliamentarian and advocate for children, Pamela’s MBE reflects her influence on early years policy and services.
Together, these individuals represent the breadth of talent, compassion and expertise found across the early years workforce. Their recognition highlights the vital role early education plays in shaping brighter futures - for children, families and communities alike.