CBE for education director

Colin Diamond, executive director of education at Birmingham City Council, has been awarded a CBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

The honour is for services to education.

Colin has worked in education leadership roles for over 30 years. He cut his teeth professionally as a teacher, youth worker and child psychotherapist in inner-London. He took on some challenging schools in the East End of London as associate head teacher and worked at the Department for Education before coming to Birmingham.

Colin said: “I am very proud to be awarded a CBE. I have worked in education and children’s services since 1978 with some great teams in London, the North East, South West and now Birmingham. I feel that the honour reflects their work as much as mine. I have always strived to improve the life chances of children from disadvantaged backgrounds with my roots in Toxteth, Liverpool. It’s a privilege to continue that work in Birmingham, such a brilliant city.”

Additionally, foster carer Deloris Collett has been awarded the MBE for services to children and families. Deloris is also chair of the Birmingham Foster Carers’ Association.

Rehana Khan, manager of Bharosa domestic abuse service, has been awarded the BEM (British Empire Medal) for services to vulnerable people in Birmingham.

Councillor Mike Sharpe, a former Lord Mayor of Birmingham, was awarded the British Empire Medal for his work in local government and the community. Cllr Sharpe said: “It’s a huge honour, especially on the Queen’s 90th birthday. I am lucky to be chosen.”