A HEADTEACHER who turned around the fortunes of a failing primary school has been awarded the OBE.

Susan West, a teacher for almost 40 years, was head at Millbrook Primary, Stalybridge in 2002 when the school was placed in special measures by Ofsted inspectors.

The school was branded ‘unsatisfactory’ in most subjects, particularly the core subjects of English, maths and science.

But just two years later staff celebrated an amazing recovery when it was not only brought out of special measures but also topped the local league tables, becoming one of the most-improved schools in the country.

Mrs West, who has worked at several schools in Tameside, left last year to take over as head at The Heys Primary in Ashton.

She said she was ‘pleased but embarrassed’ to be recognised in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours and had accepted it on behalf of all her former colleagues at Millbrook.

"This pinpoints me as the leader but there was a tremendous team of people there," she said. "Without that group of people it couldn’t have been done — it definitely comes down to the teamwork — and I accepted it for everyone."

The 58 year old, who is married to Peter — a teacher at Holden Clough Primary — lives in Ashton and has two sons, one of whom is a teacher.

She said she was stunned to be honoured for something she describes as ‘just doing my job.’

"As far as I’m concerned it’s a job that I’ve always done, a job that I love, but Millbrook will always hold a special place in my heart," she added.

Education chief, Councillor Ged Cooney, said: "We are absolutely delighted to congratulate Susan on receiving this honour.  Not only does it recognise her hard work and efforts in raising educational standards, but it also acknowledges how all teachers make an important contribution to children and young people in the borough."