ONE OF the driving forces behind a leading education provider in Tameside has been honoured with an MBE.
Wendy Mackie, of Works4U, has received the title in the King’s New Year’s Honours List.
And she can now tell people after having to keep the news a secret.
For she told The Correspondent: “I am honoured to receive the award.
“I have been bursting to tell people but obviously had to wait!”
Wendy’s honour comes after more than 25 years’ experience working with vulnerable people and opening Works4U in 2002.
Now it provides ways of learning away from the traditional school system while working alongside other education establishments in the community.
Offering what is described as ‘a transformative journey for learners aged 14-24,’ its last Ofsted inspection noted: “Learners benefit from working with staff who understand the challenges they face in their lives.
“Leaders support learners effectively to improve their behaviour and overcome potential barriers to their studies.
“They learn how to become active and valued citizens through highly motivating community projects and activities.”
A former chief executive at Stalybridge Celtic, Wendy is now managing director and deputy designated safeguarding lead at Works4U, which is based at The Peacock on Ambleside in Ridge Hill.
And this honour is recognition for the work she has put in and how it has benefitted the community.
Wendy, of Stalybridge, is one of three people from Tameside to receive an MBE.
As well as Mossley’s Christine Lyness, Hyde’s Joan Todd is also recognised.
Currently team manager of the Afghan Resettlement and Ukraine Response Team at Manchester City Council, the former pupil of Leigh Street Primary School has been honoured for services to refugee resettlement.